Phil 2:17, “Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. For the same reason you also be glad~~ and rejoice~~ with me.”
In Philippians 2:17, Paul is calling for the Philippian church to be as joyous as he was in his imprisonment and service for them.
Paul referred to his potential death as being “poured out as a libation” (a Jewish drink offering) as an “offering on the sacrifice service of your faith”—that is, he would stand firm for the clarity of the gospel regardless of criticism, ostracism, ridicule, torture, and possible martyrdom.
This was not expressed in a morbid, self-pitying sense but in the sense of privilege, honor, and glory for being a part of the salvation of the Philippian believers.
Regardless of what it would cost Paul, he found great delight in helping others come to Christ and learn to walk with Him in the midst of their problems of life.
Many believers only experience joy or gladness as the world does. When situations are favorable, they are happy; but when life is contrary, they are sad and resentful. The only thing that brings them joy is receiving personal benefits or having fun or good experiences.
Worldly, self-serving believers find it difficult to understand how missionaries can live for years under primitive, demanding, or dangerous conditions yet maintain their joy.
Ironically, the offering of one’s life for the Lord and others brings a deep joy that external circumstances cannot quench. These believers live in the presence of the Lord all the time and find it wonderful.
Peter had this attitude when he and the other apostles were flogged and ordered “not to speak in the name of Jesus”; nevertheless, they “went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name” (Acts 5:40–41). Oh, to be counted worthy!
Selfless service for Christ and others is not a loss but an offering to God. Anything given up for Christ is replaced with something infinitely more valuable and gratifying. As Paul wrote, “This light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison” (2 Cor 4:17).
Peter challenged his readers, “To the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation” (1 Pet 4:13). Can you look up from your circumstances and rejoice in Christ and then continue to pour out your life for others with joy today?
“Lord, give me friends that are willing to stand up for You in the public arena, and may we encourage each other.”