Joy in All Circumstances

Ashland Church of Christ
Dec 31, 2025
3 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

Pastor Collin Brennan

January 4, 2025

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OVERVIEW

Joy in All Circumstances

Philippians 1:12–26

As we step into a new year, Pastor Collin Brennan opened a new sermon series in the book of Philippians with a powerful reminder: joy is not rooted in circumstances, but in Christ.

Drawing from Paul’s imprisonment in Rome, we see a faith that refuses to be shaken by hardship. Though chained, awaiting trial, and facing uncertainty, Paul chose joy—not because life was easy, but because Christ was faithful. His imprisonment became a platform for the gospel, emboldening believers and spreading the name of Jesus even among the imperial guard.

Pastor Collin challenged us to reflect honestly on our own hearts:

Where do we look when life feels overwhelming?
What motivates our service to God?
Are we aiming for Christ—or for the approval of others?

Through Paul’s declaration—“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain”—we are reminded that true joy flows from a life fully surrendered to Jesus. Whether in life or death, success or suffering, Christ remains our hope.

The message closed with three simple but powerful takeaways:

Choose Joy – Trust God in every circumstance.
Live to Lift Others – Use your gifts to serve and encourage.
Aim for Christ, Not the Crowd – Seek His glory above all else.

Joy isn’t fleeting happiness. It’s a deep, steady confidence in a faithful God—one that carries us through every season of life.

📅 Upcoming Message – Sunday, January 11, 2025

Speaker: Pastor Collin Brennan

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These Bible reading plans are more than just daily devotionals—they’re invitations to go deeper in your faith. Whether you’re exploring the wisdom of Proverbs, the bold challenge of James, or the redemptive story of Samson, each study is designed to draw you closer to the heart of God.

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