Kurt Trucksess

Philippians Kurt Trucksess

On January 22, 2020, the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in the United States. Over the following weeks, the virus began its march across the country. Attempting to flatten the curve, businesses shuttered. Many began working from home. Zoom meetings and masks became part of everyday life as a country isolated itself. While confinement in our homes kept us physically safe, it was mentally devastating. It led to depression, suicide, rioting, and anger. The virus' financial fallout exacerbated the situation as joblessness skyrocketed to Great Depression levels. Where can we find joy in a COVID-19 world that is falling apart? Is there a way we can still smile, even when we can't see hope for the future? Yes! There is still reason for joy no matter what circumstances we face. The reason for our joy comes from what God has done for us through Jesus. In Philippians, Paul teaches us how Jesus gives us joy in spite of our troubles. Paul shows us how Jesus gave him joy even though he was in prison, chained to a Roman soldier, and facing possible execution If Jesus can bring joy when life is falling apart, that is something all of us need. This book began as a series of sermons on the book of Philippians delivered to CrossWinds Church in Spirit Lake, IA. While Philippians constantly returns to the theme of joy, the book also teaches other truths we need to know, such as the importance of humility. Philippians explains the greatness of Jesus' humility, why we should pursue humility like Jesus, and how humility brings unity and peace in a world of division and chaos.