Coffee Cup VersesHighlights from Philippians

Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. Philippians 3:1 (ESV)

Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write to you again about this is no trouble for me and is a protection for you. Philippians 3:1 (HCSB)

Now then, brothers and sisters, be joyful in the Lord. It’s no trouble for me to write the same things to you, and it’s for your safety. Philippians 3:1 (GW)

You are

to happiness.

Unhappiness is a dangerous place.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4 (NIV)

Insights…•Happiness is really important — it’s dangerous without it.•Happiness comes before accomplishment.

Insights…•Happiness is really important — it’s dangerous without it.•Happiness comes before accomplishment.

How do we rejoice in the Lord always?

Gratitude•I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3 (NIV)

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:19–20 (NIV)

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.

Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.

The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped.

But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas.

He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” Acts 16:25–31 (NIV)

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.

The science on gratitude… • Stronger immune systems and

lower blood pressure;•Higher levels of positive emotions;•More joy, optimism, and happiness;•Acting with more generosity and compassion;• Feeling less lonely and isolated.

I know what some of you are thinking…• I sure wish someone would be call me!•You are in a dangerous place.•The message of the Christian life: you find life by losing it.

So far…•Happiness is really important.•Happiness comes before accomplishment.•Expressing gratitude predicts happiness.

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32 (KJV 1900)

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22–23 (NIV)

I know what some of you are thinking…• I sure wish someone would be kind to me!•You are in a dangerous place.•The message of the Christian life: you find life by losing it.

So far…•Happiness is really important.•Happiness comes before accomplishment.•Expressing gratitude predicts happiness.•Expressing kindness predicts happiness.