As we step into 2026, God is calling us to more than New Year’s resolutions—He’s calling us to revival.
Our prayer as a church is clear:
100% engagement. More of Jesus. More surrendered lives. More impact.
Revival isn’t something we wait on; it’s something we lean into. Through prayer, fasting, God’s Word, and unity, we are believing that God will advance His purposes in us, even through adversity.
The apostle Paul understood this truth deeply. His letter to the Philippians was written not from a stage, but from a prison cell. Yet it is one of the most joy-filled books in all of Scripture. Why? Because Paul knew this: God often advances His heavenly purposes through earthly adversity.
What the enemy intends as a setback, God uses as a setup.
1. Joy When Life Is Hard
Paul begins by reframing his circumstances. He doesn’t deny the pain, but he refuses to let it define the outcome.
“Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually advanced the gospel.”
— Philippians 1:12
Paul thought he was going to Rome as a preacher. Instead, he arrived as a prisoner. The situation wasn’t good, but God used it for good.
Paul had endured beatings, shipwrecks, betrayal, hunger, and exhaustion. Now he was under house arrest, chained to Roman guards, awaiting trial. Yet his focus wasn’t on what happened to him, but on what God was doing through it.
Life is full of unplanned, unwanted, and unpleasant things. Bad things do happen to good people. But things don’t just happen. There is no such thing as luck, good or bad. God is sovereign, and He rules even when we don’t understand. Paul was resting because God is reigning.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
— Romans 8:28
Like ingredients in a recipe, individual elements may not taste good on their own, but together they produce something beautiful. What feels bitter in isolation can be redemptive in God’s hands.
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
— Genesis 50:20
Sanctification is a process. Life is a journey. Feelings may say, “This was all bad,” but faith declares, “God meant it for good.”
“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
— Philippians 1:6
There is purpose in your pain. What others meant for evil, God can use for His glory and the good of others.
2. Joy When People Are Hurtful
Adversity doesn’t only come through circumstances; it often comes through people.
“Most of the brothers and sisters, having become confident in the Lord by my imprisonment, dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.”
— Philippians 1:14
“Some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry… others out of selfish ambition.”
— Philippians 1:15–17
Friendly fire is real. There are no perfect churches because there are no perfect people. Not every accusation deserves a response. If you live for Jesus, criticism will come. Don’t let it pull you off mission.
Joy doesn’t come from ideal circumstances. It comes from a surrendered heart.
3. Joy When Christ Is Honored
“What does it matter? The important thing is that in every way… Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice.”
— Philippians 1:18
Paul’s joy wasn’t tied to his freedom, comfort, or reputation. It was tied to Christ. Though Paul was chained, the gospel reached the imperial guard and even Caesar’s household.
“All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.”
— Philippians 4:22
“I am suffering… chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained.”
— 2 Timothy 2:9
Adversity makes some people better and others bitter. The difference is perspective.
Joy is not circumstantial. It’s supernatural.
Living With Unshakable Joy
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
— Philippians 1:21
When Christ is your everything, you can handle anything.
No matter what season you’re in—mountain or valley—God has gone ahead of you. He is faithful. He is good. And He is working all things together for His purpose.
God meant it for good.
If you’re ready to take your next step, fill out a Connection Card or visit one of our campus locations. We would love to pray with you, baptize you, or help you get connected.