Dana shares a heartfelt message about the profound love of the Lord, emphasizing the blend of the gift of His Son and the support of friends. He recounts a touching poem written by a woman in the hospital, which inspired him to create a song celebrating this love. The chorus highlights the importance of both divine love and human friendship in the Christian journey. Dana encourages the congregation to sing along and reflect on their experiences of joy and support from both God and fellow believers. He then transitions to discussing the Book of Philippians, focusing on themes of joy, love, and fellowship. Despite being imprisoned, Paul expresses joy and gratitude for the Philippians' support and love. Dana emphasizes that true joy is not dependent on circumstances but arises from right relationships and actions, particularly through fellowship and agape love. He encourages believers to engage in loving actions towards one another, which fosters joy within the community. Ultimately, Dana concludes that a fixed resolution to live for Christ brings enduring joy, regardless of life's challenges.
1 Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved. 2 I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life. 4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.
1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.