Purpose 3

The third way Paul found joyful purpose in his situation was that it gave him a unique opportunity to encourage his fellow Christians in the gospel.

The Philippian Christians were skittish about openly identifying themselves with the gospel due to persecution. Paul's boldness and joy in the gospel while experiencing persecution gave them courage.

"...[M]ost of the brethren, trusting the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear." - Philippians 1:14

Perhaps your situation, terrible as it may be, has purpose because God wants to encourage and embolden the Christians around you.

How is your response to your circumstances effecting other Christians? Is your behavior causing them to trust God deeply and speak God's word fearlessly? Or is it causing them to question God's faithfulness?

It is possible for a Christian to say that the gospel is true; yet live as though it were a lie. One can say that through Jesus he has access to God, provision from God, comfort in God, and a relationship with God and live as though God is either non-existent or evil.

Do you mourn as one with no hope? Or do you mourn in such a way that your hope in God shines through the darkness?

Do you suffer as one with no comfort? Or do you suffer in such a way that God's undergirding support is clear to those around you?

Do you struggle as one with no guidance? Or is it clear to the Christians around you that God's word is your road map?

Cling to God and live in such a way that other Christians will see His reality and goodness clearly in you. Then a joyful sense of purpose will invade your suffering.