Perspective Shift: Student EditionSample

In the book of Philippians, the Apostle Paul shows us a totally different approach to life—a way of constant joy not rooted in changing circumstances but in an unchanging God. Paul wrote Philippians while under house arrest, chained to a Roman guard monitoring his every move… Yet there isn’t a hint of bitterness or anger in his words. Paul’s happiness wasn’t dependent on his environment; it was a joy anchored in his relationship with Jesus. Paul doesn't say, "Rejoice when things are going well," but instead, "Rejoice in the Lord… always!” So today, here’s an invitation: don’t settle for mere happiness when unshakable joy is yours in Christ!

• Recite this week's memory verse: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 2:5, KJV).
• Where do you chase feelings of happiness rather than seeking God's joy?
• What places in your life do you want deep, never-ending joy? Ask God for that now!