How to Thrive As a Believer

   “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: everywhere and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:11-13 (KJV).

   The Apostle Paul has illustrated a great lesson which he had come to know, one which we all as believers must master if we are to thrive as believers and have a life of faith grounded in God’s Word. For those that are constantly seeking an emotional experience, the blessing of knowing how to abound in Christ regardless of the situation is always outside their grasp. Our joy as believers does not stem from feeling good, or some new found emotional mountaintop experience. Rather, our joy as believers comes from the truth of God’s Word and from knowing our Lord and Savior.  True joy is in the knowledge that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. To know that God loves you, that He died for you, made forgiveness available to you, and that He desires to give you eternal and abundant life is the most joyous of all things.

   If Christians are made new creations and complete in Christ, why do so many look to the world for fulfilment?  Surely some cases of this phenomenon can be explained by the ongoi ...