Joy That Overcomes
- Ashland Church of Christ
- Jan 22
- 4 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Pastor Collin Brennan
January 25, 2026
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Beraca Foundation
Ruben and Karen Popet started Beraca Foundation in the beginning of 2000. They were given some land in Ruben’s hometown, Jdioara, Romania, where they built an orphanage to be a home for 20 children. Along with the orphanage, the Popets opened a free medical clinic, started a small farm and gave English lessons to people in Jdioara. Plus, they were part of the planting of a non-denominational church in the nearby town of Lugoj. Since 2000, other opportunities to serve the village of Jdioara as well as Romania have been started by the Popets.
OVERVIEW
Joy That Overcomes
Sunday, January 25, 2026 | Pastor Collin Brennan
In this message from Philippians 4, Pastor Collin Brennan reminds us that true joy is not found in favorable circumstances but in a deep, abiding relationship with Christ. As the new year begins—often carrying the same struggles from the year before—Paul’s words challenge us to rethink what joy really means.
Paul’s repeated command to “rejoice in the Lord always” reveals that joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness is temporary and dependent on circumstances, but joy is rooted in God’s grace, which never changes. Because grace is constant, rejoicing is always possible—even in hardship.
This joy shapes how we live and how we treat others. When we trust that the Lord is near and sovereign, we can respond to people with gentleness and patience rather than anxiety or frustration. Paul gives a clear remedy for anxiety: bring everything to God in prayer, with thanksgiving. When we release our burdens to Him, God promises a peace that guards our hearts and minds—peace that goes beyond human understanding.
Paul also challenges believers to be intentional about what fills their minds. Focusing on what is true, honorable, pure, and worthy of praise helps reshape our thinking and renew our minds. What we consume—through media, conversations, and influences—ultimately shapes us. If we want peace and joy, we must be deliberate about fixing our minds on Christ.
Contentment is another key theme. Paul explains that contentment is learned, not automatic, and it applies whether life brings abundance or need. His well-known words, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” are not about personal achievement but about endurance—remaining faithful and steady through both highs and lows because Christ supplies the strength.
The message closes with three clear invitations:
Choose Joy — Trust God rather than circumstances.
Be Content — Rest in Christ’s provision, not worldly standards.
Rely on Christ — Lean on His strength, not your own.
Paul’s example shows us that joy, peace, and contentment are possible even in the most difficult seasons when our focus remains on Christ. When we give everything over to Him, the peace of God walks with us—guarding our hearts and minds no matter what lies ahead.
📅 Upcoming Message – Sunday, February 1, 2026
Speaker: Pastor Collin Brennan
As we look ahead, we’re also reminded that the first Sunday of every month is Missions Sunday. This is a time to come hungry—not just for food, but with hearts ready to support the work of the gospel going out to all nations. God invites each of us to take part in His mission, whether through prayer, financial support, or by being willing to go when He calls. When we gather, give, and intercede together, we partner with God in spreading hope, truth, and the good news of Jesus to the ends of the earth.
Missions doesn’t only happen across oceans—it starts right here in Ashland. Serving within our church family is one of the most powerful ways we live out the gospel locally. Whether it’s greeting at the door, helping with children or youth, serving on the worship or media teams, assisting with hospitality, or simply showing up consistently to encourage others, every act of service matters. When we serve faithfully where God has planted us, we become a living testimony of His love to our community and strengthen the body of Christ right here at home.
Why We Give
Your generosity makes ministry possible. Because of your giving, we are able to bring these messages to you virtually, extend help to our community, support church improvements, and send resources to missions near and far. Every gift makes an eternal difference as we share the love of Jesus. Thank you for partnering with us in this work!
Worship
Go Deeper
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.
Take your next step:
Reflect with journal prompts
Talk it out in small group discussions
Pray through the lessons
Apply the truths to your everyday life
Don’t just read the Word—live it. Dive into one of these studies and let God transform your mind, strengthen your walk, and equip you to follow Jesus more faithfully.
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From the Bulletin: Church Ministries | Church Needs | Community
CHURCH MINISTRIES
Always Need
PB&J - 16 oz plastic jars
Monetary donations (cash, check, or online) are needed and appreciated to help stock the shelves.
January
Always Need
PB&J
Mac N Cheese
Canned Veggies
Fruits
Cereal
LIFE GROUPS
ALL AGES
Thursday Night Bible Study - Thursdays at 6pm (Collin Brennan)
MEN
Kingdom & Coffee - Last Saturday of the month - 6:30am (Collin Brennan)
WOMEN
Women of the Way - Third Saturday of the month at 10am (Alaina Griffin)
YOUTH/KIDS
Kindness Club - First Sunday of the month - 12:30pm (Shelbi Sisti)
Youth Group - Thursdays at 6pm | 5th - 12th Grade (Sara Roy)
Mpact & Royal Rangers - Tuesdays TBD | PreK - 4th Grade (Sara Roy)
ADULTS
Rooted - Learn more (Collin Brennan)
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