GROUP GUIDE: Philippians 4:2-9

Christmas isn't always a festive time. Whether it's the absence of loved ones, the pain of broken relationships, the weight of chronic suffering, or the unending battle against sin, it's not uncommon to end the year feeling weary and joyless. What word does the Lord offer to those of us who are barely making it to the finish line? He promises eternal joy.

It's not uncommon to end the year feeling weary and joyless.

Nestled between two chapters of judgment and invasion, Isaiah 35 is a chapter overflowing with joy for God's weary people. Even as they are about to experience the pain and consequences of their disobedience and rebellion, God extends a promise to them: it won't always be this way. God's people would "return to Zion."

Something even greater than the return from exile is coming for each of us. The joyful language of Isaiah cannot be limited to the events the author is referencing. There is a deeper promise in these verses: a better hope and a glorious day yet to come.

This promise is fulfilled in Christ; He is our joy. In Christ, we see the glory of God that transforms our lives and makes possible this radical change described in Isaiah 35. In Christ, we can be redeemed from our sinful condition. It is only through Christ that we can walk the path of righteousness because He is our righteousness.

Our circumstances may change during our time here, and we will definitely experience pain and suffering. Our joy is not determined in our circumstances, but is defined in Christ, and He doesn't change. May we rest in Christ.