The Book of Philippians - Hope in Times of Trouble

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
– Philippians 4:4-7

The book of Philippians was written by the Apostle Paul while he was imprisoned and awaiting execution.  This backdrop makes the message contained within Paul’s writing all the more powerful.  In this time of terrible circumstances, Paul was still focused on encouraging the church in Philippi.  And not only that, but Paul was also focused on the joy that Christ brought to his life- not his dire circumstances.
 
For Paul, his identity was firmly grounded in Christ, and all other threats could not shake this core commitment.  Paul’s letter to the Philippians is an invitation for us to recognize that our identity in Christ is an ongoing reason for joy.  Though trouble and difficulty may come, our connection with Christ endures.