Paul introduces his letter to the Philippians by reminding them of the joy that God offers them. We can attain deep-seated joy as we allow God to transform us over time. God promises to (if we let Him) grow us in our love for other people, teach us to understand and apply His truth, and help us develop in our moral integrity and health. Unlike happiness, this sense of joy is not dependent on circumstances. We are called to continually decide what we center our lives on: God's goodness (a focus which, in turn, produces deep-seated joy no matter the circumstances) or fleeting feelings of happiness.
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