Philippians

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier FINDING JOY IN A DISJOINTED WORLD g A Study of the Book Philippians by Sue LeBoutillier Copyright © 2018 Sue LeBouƟllier Published by: Calvary Chapel — Ontario, Oregon

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier g Philippians g Finding Joy in a Disjointed World You’ve probably heard the saying: If it’s not one thing—it’s another! My husband oŌen says: If it’s not one thing—it’s ten! His point is there’s always something not working quite right, something breaking down, some bill to be paid, some drama unfolding, or someone very unhappy with your decisions...you know exactly what I mean. There always seems to be an unwelcome circumstance that drives our emoƟonal responses, something or someone with the power to rob our peace and sanity, and steal our joy. But as daughters of the King, we don’t have to allow our circumstances to dictate our emo- Ɵonal state. We do have a choice— a choice to find joy in the midst of a dis—joy—nted world. I chose the adjecƟve disjointed to form a noƟceable wordplay. Ac- cording to Merriam Webster, disjointed means ‘being thrown out of orderly funcƟon’, (i.e., a disjointed society). That says it all. The world we spend our lives in has been thrown out of orderly funcƟon, ever since man’s sin in the Garden of Eden. It is now disjointed. But we can find joy and insert it back into our lives through our rela- Ɵonship with God in Christ Jesus. I hope this short study will enable us to do just that...Find joy: ...in spite of our circumstances (chapter 1). ...in spite of the people in our life (chapter 2). ...in spite of our image or achievements (chapter 3). ...and find joy that replaces worry with contentment (chapter 4). Does that sound compelling, inspiring, needful? The Apostle Paul’s brief thank you note to the Church in Philippi not only said thank you for their care and concern, but also encouraged them to conƟnue to live above their circumstances rather than under their circumstances!

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier This Bible study is only five weeks long — one introductory lesson followed by four weeks of study, one for each of the four chapters of the Book of Philippians. Each day’s study will consist of three elements: · Reading the enƟre chapter each day (Yep, that means reading each chapter five Ɵmes—once every day) · WriƟng the focus verses in your journal or notebook (Slowing down to handwrite verses brings a new dimension to learning) · CompleƟng the one-page of quesƟons in this Study Guide I think you’ll enjoy these steps and, aŌer five weeks, you will have a personal copy of the Book of Philippians wriƩen in your own hand. May the Lord richly bless you as you study His Word— Sue LeBoutillier sue@ccontario.com *The best translaƟon of the Bible to use is the one you understand the most easily—and using more than one translaƟon can be a great aid to study! This study guide was created using the ESV (English Standard Version), which may be a helpful tool as you work through your study. To watch the video teachings for this Bible Study go to: ccontario.com/womens-studies or YouTube.com/calvarychapelontario

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier a Read Philippians 1:1-2. · Who are the authors of this leƩer? · What word do they use to describe themselves? · Who is the intended audience? · How are they described? Introduction to the Book of Philippians Easton’s Bible DicƟonary defines a ‘saint’ as: “One separated from the world and consecrated to God; one holy by profession and by covenant; a believer in Christ” 1 Apx. Year Events in the Apostle Paul's Life Acts 34 Conversion, Damascus, Arabia 9 46-47 Antioch, Jerusalem 11 48-49 First Missionary Journey & Antioch 13-14 50 Jerusalem Council & Antioch 15 51-54 Second Missionary Journey (Philippi) 16-18 54-56 Third Missionary Journey 19-21 57 Jerusalem Arrest 22-23 57-59 Cesarean Prisoner 24-26 59-60 Journey to Rome 27-28 60-67 House Arrest in Rome * 28 * Letter written to the church in Philippi Timeline of Paul’s Activities

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier The people in Philippi were the first converts on the conƟnent of: Acts chapter ____ gives us the back story for the Philippian Church. From Acts 16:6-10, we find that Paul and Silas got the idea to sail on over to Macedonia because of a parƟcular experience. What was it? _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Jot some notes of the first three people that Paul and Silas encoun- tered that likely became a part of the Church of believers in Philippi: Lydia: _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ ChurchesÊAffectedÊbyÊPaul’sÊMissionaryÊ JourneysÊ(IncludingÊPhilippi)

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier The Slave Girl: ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ The Jailer: ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ AddiƟonal Notes: ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier In this first chapter, Paul lays out reasons for his personal joy, regard- less of the circumstances that he’s personally experiencing. · Describe Paul’s general aƫtude as he begins his leƩer and re- flects on the believers in the Church at Philippi: · From v.5 what is one pracƟcal reason Paul feels such a kinship with this group? I’m sure the Philippian Church was filled with irregular people just like any Church in America. What do we think of the people we fellowship with? Are we posiƟve, or are we picky and peƩy? · Write one adjustment you need to make in thinking about saints you fellowship with, and ask God for His power to change your thinking. V.6 sets a tone for this book in terms of looking with eyes of faith to what God has done and will do. · Whom is Paul crediƟng with their spiritual birth? __________ · With their future growth? _____________ Even though Paul brought the Gospel to this town, he made it very clear that it was the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. We can personalize this verse to remind us that God not only saved us (began the good work), but is acƟve in our lives for spiritual growth (compleƟng the good work). To grow in the Lord, we must be willing to cooperate. Is there anything today that is a hindrance to your spir- itual growth? Really think about it, ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart, and ask God to help you surrender that to Him. 0 READ: Philippians 1 0 WRITE: Philippians 1:3-6 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 1 Day 1

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier In v.7, Paul menƟons his current circumstance for the first Ɵme. · What is it? There is clearly something disjointed about a world that imprisons the messenger of peace and grace. This is the first of four Ɵmes in Philip- pians that Paul made reference to being in chains—twice as oŌen as any other leƩer he wrote, and yet this is the leƩer that makes refer- ence to joy and contentment more than any other. Yesterday, we celebrated God’s maturing work in our life. Today’s verses are a prayer for maturity and ChrisƟan character that can be applied to ourselves or others. · What is the first virtue menƟoned (v.9)? · Our culture considers love an emoƟon. But surrounded with words like knowledge and discernment, describe the type of maturing love you think Paul is praying for: · What is the purpose of this love, knowledge, and discernment (v.10)? This is one of many helpful model prayers in the Bible. We can never go wrong praying according to God’s Word. Put this example into ac- Ɵon today, by praying these verses over yourself, your husband, your children, your friend—whoever the Lord puts on your heart. Each Ɵme you write the words joy, rejoice, or rejoicing in your daily wriƟng, be sure to underline or highlight them! 0 READ: Philippians 1 0 WRITE: Philippians 1:7-11 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 1 Day 2

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier What happened to Paul was that he ended up going to Rome as a prisoner rather than a preacher—which was his desire. · What good had come from his difficult circumstances (v.12)? · Who had taken note of his situaƟon (v.13)? · What resulted when others noƟced his circumstances (v.14)? This is the second Ɵme Paul menƟoned how his chains had actually furthered God’s plan. We can’t classify our situaƟons or restricƟons with what Paul endured as a prisoner, but each of us has chains: circumstances that have turned out differently than we envisioned; painful twists in our plans; health that won’t cooperate; or loved ones who have turned away. The quesƟon is, how will we choose to view these chains — from our perspecƟve or from God’s view? To find joy in spite of circumstances, we must see God’s sovereign hand in every situaƟon. How are you handling your chains today? Read these Scriptures, and note what God teaches you about His choices for your life: Psalm 16:5-8: Psalm 25:8-10: Psalm 138:6-8: Paul focused on the Gospel, regardless of how it was handled: · What did he say was the important thing (v.18)? · What response did that generate in Paul’s heart (v.18)? 0 READ: Philippians 1 0 WRITE: Philippians 1:12-18 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 1 Day 3

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Paul knew he could count on two things that would help him through this trial. What were they (v.19)? List what Paul was hoping the Lord would help him achieve (v.20). That puts important aspects of life into perspecƟve. We may be seek- ing the help of the Lord this week for stretching our budget, caring for sick children, hunƟng for a job, help on a test—all of which God cares about, but few of us are facing the uncertainty of life or death. Note how Paul felt about the benefits of both life and death (v.21-24): Living in the Body DeparƟng with Christ Paul was confident there are no mistakes with God — that He could actually perceive benefit in either scenario. Fear of death is one of the biggest fears we face. Paul had confronted this fear and decided that if he died, the worst that would happen would be gain, because he would be in Heaven with his Lord. Knowing this, he was able to face his trials without leƫng them get the best of him. His greatest fear had been seƩled. Can you relate to a fear of death? Or, any other fear, for that maƩer? God is our Helper and if we bring our fears to Him, He WILL give us His mind to overcome them and be delivered. It is through leaving the details of life and death in God’s hands that we find Joy! 0 READ: Philippians 1 0 WRITE: Philippians 1:19-26 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 1 Day 4

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier These final verses focus on unity and stability. V.27 says, let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ. Explain what that would look like and what changes that could mean in your life: Two things have been granted to us as ChrisƟans. What are they (V.29)? Ouch! My flesh cringes when I read verses like that. Believing is fine —suffering—not so much! Paul wanted to remind us that if we are suffering for Christ (like he had suffered there in the Philippian jail and now in Rome), it was not to be viewed as a wrong turn on our part, an accident or divine punishment, but rather part of God’s plan for us. Why? What purpose does suffering play in our lives? Read 2 Corinthians 4:6-11. · What treasure do we possess? · How is the container of the treasure described? · What is the purpose of this treasure being in such a weak and frail vessel? Suffering is having what you don’t want, or wanƟng what you don’t have. The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances. Elizabeth EllioƩ 2 0 READ: Philippians 1 0 WRITE: Philippians 1:27-30 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 1 Day 5

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Date: ________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes for Teaching on Week 1

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier As we conƟnue with the theme of this book, “Finding Joy in a Disjoint- ed World”, chapter two brings us to the reality of Finding Joy in spite of the people in our lives. In your journal, go back and circle the words: mind, comfort, love, and parƟcipaƟon, along with affecƟon and sympathy. Ask yourself: · Does my encouragement (joy) really come from knowing Christ? · Do I draw comfort from the truth that He loved me so much as to even give His life for me? · Do I parƟcipate with the Holy Spirit on a regular basis (prayer)? · Has my mind been transformed to the same mind and same love? In v.2, what did Paul say would complete his own joy? List the phrases you see in v.3-4 that show what having the same mind as Christ looks like: · · · · We know our sinful heart wants its own way when it comes to rela- Ɵonships. But giving our heart that plaƞorm will rob us of the joy that is so vital to our tesƟmony, and our emoƟonal health. Maybe you’ve seen the acrosƟc for J-O-Y: J — Jesus O — Others Y — You Here is the applicaƟon for J-O-Y: · Lord, help me to truly make You first place in my heart and mind. · Place in me one ambiƟon straight from Your heart to serve others. · Show me one specific need in someone’s life that You desire to meet through Your strength and my obedience. 0 READ: Philippians 2 0 WRITE: Philippians 2:1-4 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 2 Day 1

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Today’s passage is the mountain peak of this chapter as Paul connects the dots for us with our example in Christ Jesus. The ESV says, we should Have this mind among yourselves, but the NIV’s rendering is more straighƞorward: Your aƫtude should be like that of Christ Jesus... What is the nature of Jesus and His relaƟonship to His Father (v.6)? And yet, for our sake, He didn’t Ɵghtly grip His righƞul posiƟon. From v.7-8, list the phrases that show the drasƟc effort Jesus made for our benefit. · · · · When we read, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (v.4), we may think, yep—I agree! But when asked ‘How far will you go?’, our intenƟons may get stuck right at comfort and convenience. Jesus didn’t stop there — humbling Him- self to become a human was anything but comfortable or convenient. He is our supreme example in not gripping our rights, and His aƫtude can be ours, through the Spirit of Jesus that dwells within us! Which of my perceived rights am I willing to lay aside (as Jesus did) to be a blessing to someone else? What act of obedience am I willing to say yes to today? 0 READ: Philippians 2 0 WRITE: Philippians 5:5-11 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 2 Day 2

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier One of the two central themes of this leƩer is encouragement to con- Ɵnue making progress (growing) in our faith and in serving others. In v.12, Paul commends the Church for having applied themselves to ___________________, then he encourages them “to __________ out their own salvaƟon”. Obedience and work in the same sentence might make us think it means work for our salvaƟon. · Read Ephesians 2:8-9, and explain why that cannot be the mean- ing of this passage: George Muller put it this way: “A believer is called to the acƟve pur- suit of the will of God, he must work out what God, in His grace, has worked in.” If you are born-again, can you sense that God has already placed His character—His mind in your life? You have a choice to obey, give that character ferƟle ground, let it take root, grow and yield a crop that will bring glory to the Lord. HE works it in, but it is through our obedi- ence that WE work it out. What type of character are we talking about? Read these passages and ask the Lord to show you one thing He has already worked in you and is asking you to yield to Him and work it out: · 2 Peter 1:5-8 · GalaƟans 5:22-25 Fear and trembling (v.12) are passionate words, but may not be a reg- ular part of your vocabulary. What words could describe your inten- Ɵons toward spiritual growth that ARE in your vocabulary? 0 READ: Philippians 2 0 WRITE: Philippians 2:12-13 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 2 Day 3

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Mommas, how many Ɵmes have you quoted v.14 to your kids? This Ɵme, it’s here for US! Here are some other translaƟons for this verse: ...without complaining or arguing (NIV) ...without murmurings and dispuƟng (KJV) ...without grumbling or dispuƟng (NASB) The word grumbling reminds me of Israel’s constant complaining against Aaron, Moses, and God Himself. In Exodus and Numbers, they seemed to grumble non-stop about their hardships, food, water, ene- mies, leaders; all while following God to the promised land. This cre- ated a disjointed community, rather than a group of people finding joy. The same can be true for us. If God works in me to will and to act (2:13), ...then I know circumstances and people in my life are not outside of His noƟce and have perhaps been placed in my life for a purpose. What type of complaining are you being convicted of? TrivialiƟes like laundry? Mountains like bankruptcy? Or simply your ‘lot’ in life? As we submit ourselves to Christ and restrain grumbling, what type of progress may others see in our lives (v.15)? · · As Paul wrote this leƩer, he felt as though he was just about poured out. Do you at Ɵmes feel just about poured out? Yet, rather than com- plain, what was his aƫtude (v.17-18)? If you want to break the habit of complaining: “Allow yourself to complain of nothing—not even the weather” Elisabeth EllioƩ 2 0 READ: Philippians 2 0 WRITE: Philippians 2:14-18 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 2 Day 4

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier In v.19, Paul says he would like to send ___________ back to Philippi. · What characterisƟc did Timothy possess (v.20)? · What was the characterisƟc of most other people (v.21)? If we separated people into those two categories: A) genuine interest in others welfare; B) looking out for your own interests, which side would you have to stand on? We wake up each day set on our ‘own personal interest’ side of the line. It’s a choice to yield our natural mind to the mind of Christ, so He can enable us to work to the outside what He put on the inside. A GenƟle, named Epaphroditus, hand-delivered this leƩer to the Phi- lippian Church. List phrases Paul used to describe Epaphroditus in v.25: · · · · Read Phil. 4:18 to find out why Epaphroditus first visited Paul. · What almost happened to him in the process of serving Paul (v.27)? · To what does Paul aƩribute Epaphroditus sƟll being alive (v.27)? In God’s plan for working His grace in our lives, we may be called to serve a ministry leader, pastor, missionary, or someone you barely know, in an extravagant way. Here is a quesƟon to ponder for today: “Am I willing to take another step in Finding Joy by risking something dear to me to really minister to someone else in their Ɵme of need?” 0 READ: Philippians 2 0 WRITE: Philippians 2:19-30 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 2 Day 5

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Date: ________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Notes for Teaching on Week 2

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Rejoicing is one of the main points in Philippians and this secƟon will help us find joy, regardless of our image or achievements. What did Paul say was no trouble for him to do (v.1)? · What did he believe his reminders would provide? I’ve oŌen said I need constant input of God’s Words because I leak! It’s necessary to be reminded of the same things over and over. For example, we know salvaƟon is not by works, so did the Philippians; sƟll Paul warned them of destrucƟve influencers who taught ideas that conflicted with the Gospel of Grace. Obviously, this group was proud of their religious conformity to circumcision—it was part of their brand or image. Paul went on to remind the Church about the characterisƟcs of those who are truly, spiritually circumcised in v.3: · Worship by ______________________________________ · Glory in __________________________________________ · Put no confidence in ________________________________ Joy comes from focus on what Christ has done, not what we’ve achieved. Let’s read these verses again from the boƩom up (v. 4, 3, 1) “If anyone else thinks he has reason for confidence in the flesh” Paul had more — Yet he found no JOY in those achievements. He put “no confidence in the flesh” rather he “rejoiced in the Lord”! Circle any of the following religious achievements you may have once put your confidence in: water bapƟsm communion church membership/aƩendance Sabbath-keeping There can be no joy, saƟsfacƟon, or confidence in any of these achievements apart from the work of Christ — so let’s rejoice today simply because we belong to God! 0 READ: Philippians 3 0 WRITE: Philippians 3:1-14 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 3 Day 1

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier As an example of someone who could have taken pride in his image and achievements, Paul listed his pedigree. Note what he said (v.5-6): · Circumcised: · People/Tribe: · His orthodox doctrine: · Works that proved his zeal: In terms of gains and losses (v.7): · Which side of the balance sheet did he put those things on? · AŌer Christ transformed him, how did he consider them? Our flesh tends toward keeping a spiritual ledger. If we fall short on some point (like telling a lie), we want to do something equally good to balance. But this leaves a person wondering, “Which side of my ledger has a posiƟve balance right now—Am I ahead?—Am I be- hind?—I beƩer do something more”. In fact, most people go through life thinking they will ulƟmately be judged based on their final bal- ance. This is NOT a joy-filled existence. With this misconcepƟon in mind, share how the truth expressed in v.9 can bring peace and joy into the heart of a child of God, and maybe how you would express your source of joy to someone who noƟced: 0 READ: Philippians 3 0 WRITE: Philippians 3:5-9 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 3 Day 2

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Paul had warned the Philippians of the temptaƟon to find joy in doing or achieving. Today’s verses clarify that it’s not doing but knowing. What was Paul’s passion in life (v.10)? Specifically, he wanted to experience life in Christ through (v.10-11): ... the ______________ of the resurrecƟon... … that he may _____________ in his sufferings… … and to become like him in his ________________. You would think by this Ɵme that Paul would have known Christ preƩy well, wouldn’t you? And yet, his one ambiƟon in life was to know his Savior! If the Apostle Paul was sƟll ambiƟous to know Jesus more, we should take inspiraƟon to know Him beƩer as well. Verses 12-14 use the language of athleƟcs. The term pressing on might bring to mind a marathon or some long-lasƟng event. List similariƟes you can think of, in comparing a marathon to your own spiritual life in Christ: As we journey through our life here on earth as followers of Jesus Christ... We want to REJOICE because we belong to God; and We want to GROW like women who belong to God. This is our ambiƟon in life! 0 READ: Philippians 3 0 WRITE: Philippians 3:10-12 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 3 Day 3

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier List the acƟon phrases Paul used in v.13-14: To focus ahead, what is the necessary aƫtude regarding the word ‘behind’? In our past, we all have some degree of regret, drama, achievement, or probably a liƩle of all three. Each has its dangers and we’re warned not to allow the past to trip us up in our race. Thinking about what you know of the Apostle Paul’s life: · What things had he done in the past that could have created such a temptaƟon to be mired in regret, so as to not serve the Lord? · What posiƟve achievements could have tempted him to think he’d done a preƩy good job—probably more than his fair share? We should be inspired by knowing that Paul had to process these temptaƟons as well, and not to let his past hinder him as he strained forward. Ask the Lord to reveal to your heart anything from your past that may be hindering your forward progress. Read and comment on these verses that inspire us to adopt a pas- sionate pursuit to know and serve God: · Psalm 42:1-2 · Isaiah 43:18-19 · 1 Corinthians 2:9-11 · 1 Peter 2:2-3 0 READ: Philippians 3 0 WRITE: Philippians 3:13-16 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 3 Day 4

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier The encouragement in this passage is to be discerning of both the good examples of Godly living and those who are bad examples. From previous verses, how would you describe, “Those who walk ac- cording to the example you have in us”? I’ll do the first one... · V.3: “No confidence in the flesh” (Their assurance for salvaƟon is completely in the work of Christ, not their own works.) · · Making examples of mature ChrisƟans in our life is a Biblical concept. Read these verses and make notes: 1 Corinthians 11:1 Hebrews 10:24 Hebrews 13:7 Finally—the warning of bad examples! Paul was not talking about outsiders here, rather people within the Church, who DO NOT hold to the paƩern that Paul set down in this leƩer and other Scriptures. In v.18, what are these people at enmity with? __________________ In v.19, what is their mind set on? ____________________________ If someone becomes an example for us, we must inspect the fruit of their life through the filter of the Cross. Paul was grieved to tears over people who became such a negaƟve influence over those he brought to Christ. We must not allow the influence of people who either: · skew toward legalism by adding rules and promoƟng doing; or · advocate liberality by wrongly toleraƟng godless acts in the name of acceptance and grace. 0 READ: Philippians 3 0 WRITE: Philippians 3:17-21 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 3 Day 5

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Date: _______________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Notes for Teaching on Week 3

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Problems and stress in life are inevitable — our reacƟon is oŌen anx- iety and worry, but we’re not leŌ without tools to help us replace our worry with contentment. This chapter will help us find those tools. The only Church problem menƟoned in this book is here in v.2-3. · What seemed to be going on with these two women? · Why was it important for these two ladies to get back into agree- ment? (Consider verses from chapter two) · Why do you think it may have been necessary to get someone else involved? (speculaƟon) In his first leƩer, Peter described the Church of Jesus as being built up with living stones (1 Peter 2:5). God Himself places those stones together as He sees fit, and from Ɵme to Ɵme, we find ourselves in very close proximity to another stone that rubs us the wrong way! Read Hebrews 12:15. What is warned about these situaƟons? Read 1 Peter 4:8. What is a prevenƟon for these offenses? Are you in the middle of any situaƟons right now that you need to follow this mandate, find your common ground and simply “agree in the Lord”? 0 READ: Philippians 4 0 WRITE: Philippians 4:1-3 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 4 Day 1

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Let’s focus on the basic observaƟons we see in v.4: · What are we commanded to do? · Who are we to rejoice in? · When are we to rejoice? As a companion passage, read Zephaniah 3:17. · How does the Lord feel about YOU (or anyone who is in Christ)? · What does He do to show His pleasure over you? Verse 6 begins a conversaƟon about worry or anxiety. NoƟce Paul’s verb use: “do not _______ anxious about ___________________”. We oŌen talk about anxiety like it’s something you have—like you have a broken leg. We say, ‘she has social anxiety’ just like we say, ‘she has an abscessed tooth’. The Apostle exhorted believers not to BE anxious! You can’t exhort someone not to have an abscessed tooth. We will war over worry as long as we are on this earth. · Where does the baƩle of worry or anxiety take place in us (v.7) · What is our remedy for worry, cares, and anxiety (v.6)? · What is the expected result of applying the remedy (v.7)? A peace-filled heart is only accessible by a praying heart. Turn to page 32 for prayer suggesƟons based on these verses. If you struggle with an anxious heart, applying this balanced prayer approach for a season may improve your emoƟonal and mental health. 0 READ: Philippians 4 0 WRITE: Philippians 4:4-7 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 4 Day 2

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier These verses, like yesterday’s, also help in our war over worry! To begin, write the last four words in v.8: __________ ___________ __________ ___________ If praying is a strategy for winning over worrisome thoughts, then the thinking paƩerns in this verse would be like helpful reinforcements. List each of the beneficial thoughts for mental health, a synonym or two, and then the opposite—like this: Whatever is: ____true_____ ___honest, trustworthy__ not __a lie, imagined____ __honorable__ ___ __________________ not _________________ ____________ ___ __________________ not _________________ ____________ ___ __________________ not _________________ ____________ ___ __________________ not _________________ ____________ ___ __________________ not _________________ ____________ ___ __________________ not _________________ ____________ ___ __________________ not _________________ Read 2 Corinthians 10:5. Now, look at your list in the far right column. These are the things we are to capture and kick out of our mind— they are enemies of mental health. The challenges to our thought life change as the seasons of life change. What is the Holy Spirit showing you for this season, and how do you intend to act upon it? List the coveted results, from the end of v.9, of pracƟcing the preven- taƟve mental health measures that Paul listed and pracƟced himself: 0 READ: Philippians 4 0 WRITE: Philippians 4:8-9 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 4 Day 3

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Remember, this leƩer is mainly a missionary thank-you note, and now near the end, Paul is geƫng to the thanking. · What had the Philippian Church done that caused Paul to rejoice? (Hint: You may need to read through to the end of the chapter) · What virtue had Paul learned to apply in his life, regardless of his circumstances? · Describe, in your own words, what it means to be content: · PracƟcally, how does a woman learn to be content? BeƩer yet, how do you learn to be content? “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” is a well-known verse. Maybe you’ve never noƟced its surrounding context. The point Paul was passing on was that we really CAN do all things, endure tough circumstances and live with difficult people, as we find our strength in Christ! · What deficit are you facing this season that needs the applicaƟon of this truth? · What area of your life has become discontented without you even noƟcing? · What difficult person or relaƟonship is the Holy Spirit challenging you to entrust to Him? "We would worry less if we praised more. Thanksgiving is the enemy of discontent and dissaƟsfacƟon." — Dr. Harry Ironside 0 READ: Philippians 4 0 WRITE: Philippians 4:10-13 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 4 Day 4

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier What role did the Philippian Church play in Paul’s early ministry? Paul wanted to be clear in v.17 that he wasn’t fishing for support, but was genuinely interested in the effect their giving had on them. Some- Ɵmes we may feel that our giving is small and insignificant. Read these passages, and reflect on how they apply to your own life and giving: · Mark 12:41-44 · GalaƟans 6:10 · 1 Timothy 5:8 · Hebrews 6:10 · Hebrews 13:16 · RevelaƟon 3:17 The context of verses 18 & 19 is giving and receiving. What connecƟon do you perceive between theses ideas? “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” That is a PROMISE! But you'll noƟce it's a promise made to GIVERS! There's a principle that we find throughout the Word of God—and that principle says that when we GIVE, it will be GIVEN BACK TO US— a good measure, pressed down and shaken together. —Paul D. LeBouƟllier 0 READ: Philippians 4 0 WRITE: Philippians 4:14-23 in your journal 0 PRAY: Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you Week 4 Day 5

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Reflections on Philippians As we close our study of this book, use this space to write reflecƟons and observaƟons for your personal life: · What would you say is your favorite verse from this study? · What is one adjustment in your aƫtude, with regard to your cir- cumstances, that God has brought about through your study? · What is one adjustment in your aƫtude about people in your life that God has brought about through your study? · What is one adjustment in your aƫtude about your image, or what you do or achieve, that God has brought about through your study? · What has God shown you specifically about handling stress and worry? Is there something He has challenged you to change? · What is one adjustment in your aƫtude about contentment, giv- ing and receiving, that God has brought about through your study?

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Date: _______________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ Notes for Teaching on Week 4

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Praying for Improved Emotional & Mental Health Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplicaƟon with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6 Whenever we stumble onto really good advice in Scripture, it’s good to stop and find a way to put it into pracƟce. It would be a shame to just read it, understand it, agree with it, but not DO IT! That’s what this sup- plement is about — helping us to put into pracƟce what the Word says. Some translaƟons use the word worry — don’t worry about anything! We’ve learned, in our study, that prayer is the anƟdote to worry, and in the above verse, Paul brings to mind three unique aspects to prayer: Prayer—The simple word prayer in this verse carries the idea of devoƟon and worship. When we feel the darkness of worry or anxiety come over us, what we really need is to first worship our Creator God to bring to mind His power and greatness! We need to remind ourselves that He’s on duty and He’s able to handle our problems. SupplicaƟon—This aspect is what comes to mind when most people think of prayer — telling God our needs. Some translaƟons use the word peƟƟon, but it simply means speaking your worries to God — then leav- ing the list with Him. Thanksgiving—The final element of prayer means just what it sounds like — giving thanks to God, crediƟng Him with what He has given and culƟ- vaƟng an aƫtude of graƟtude. Worry tells God you don’t trust Him for the details Worry is the opposite of Worship.

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier These pages are intended to jump start your war over worry! In each of the three categories (which correspond with the three aspects of prayer from Philippians 4:6), we’re going to write and pray seven brief conversaƟons. The first category will be seven things to worship about God, then seven peƟƟons, and then seven areas of graƟtude. You can see where we’re going with this — developing relaƟonship by sandwiching our peƟƟons between worship and thanksgiving. Sã›Ö Oě: List seven things to worship/adore about God — (Example: God, I worship You for Your unchanging character and dependability. I know You are the same, and respond to me the same; yesterday, today and forever.) 1. _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 2. _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 3. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ 4. _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 5. _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 6. _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 7. _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Sã›Ö TóÊ: List seven peƟƟons — things that would stress your heart and mind, if not brought to the Lord. (Example: God, I pray that You would grip the heart and mind of my son/daughter, so they would surrender their life fully to You.) 1. ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 2. ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 3. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ 4. ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 5. ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 6. _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________ 7. ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier Sã›Ö T«Ù››: List seven areas of thankfulness in your life— (Example: God, thank You so much for my car that’s sƟll geƫng me to work everyday in spite of its many miles!) 1. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ 2. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ 3. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ 4. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ 5. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ 6. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ 7. _____________________________________________ _____________________________________________ There are other important aspects to prayer found in the Bible such as confessing our sins, without which we don’t keep our relaƟonship with the Lord open and healthy. But this format is a simple way to put into pracƟce what we studied in the last chapter of Philippians. Maybe it will be profitable for you to do this many Ɵmes in the com- ing days and weeks, as you conƟnue to develop even more thoughts of worship and thanksgiving, to sandwich around your peƟƟons. May the Lord Bless You!

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier ESV Bible verses… Scripture quotaƟons are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. NIV Bible verses… Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 1— Easton, MaƩhew George. Illustrated Bible DicƟonary: And Treas- ury of Biblical History, Biography, Geography, Doctrine, and Liter- ature. London: T. Nelson and Sons, 1897. WORDsearch CROSS e-book. 2— EllioƩ, Elizabeth. Keep a Quiet Heart, Servant PublicaƟons, Ann Arbor, MI References

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier The following WOW Bible Studies wriƩen by Sue LeBouƟllier are available through the Calvary Chapel Ontario bookstore, and through our online store at www.ccontario.com. Old Testament: · Genesis —Divine Design, From Eden to Egypt · Exodus —Divine Deliverance, From Egypt to Sinai · Numbers —The Wilderness Way, From Sinai to the Jordan · Joshua —The Path of Promise, From the Jordan into Canaan · Judges — A Time of Turning · Ruth — Rescue and Rest · 1 Samuel — The Coming King · 2 Samuel— The Reigning King · 1&2 Kings (Part One)— Solomon and the House of the Lord · Jonah —The Call of Compassion New Testament: · The Way of Jesus —The Sermon on the Mount (MaƩhew) · Simply Jesus —The “I AMs” of Christ (John) · Acts —Walking in the Spirit, The First Days of the Last Days · GalaƟans —Finding Grace in a Demanding World · Philippians —Finding Joy in a Disjointed World · Colossians —Finding Stability in a Changing World · Titus —While We Wait · James —Real Faith for Daily Life · 1 & 2 Peter —Hope, Holiness and Humility in a HosƟle World · 1,2,3 John —Light, Love and Logic WomenÊofÊtheÊWordÊBibleÊStudies

Finding Joy — Copyright 2017 — Sue LeBoutillier