1. We Can Rejoice in the Lord Because We Are Servants (Philippians 2:19-30)

2. A Brief Review Our lesson for today represents our 11 th installment in this series of lessons concerning why we can rejoice in the Lord. Time does not allow me to fully describe each detail of the previous ten lessons, but we can know the following:

3. We Can Rejoice in the Lord Because… We are saints (1:1,2) God works in our lives (1:6) We are partakers of grace (1:7) Our love is abounding (1:9-11) God works all things to our good (1:12-18) We have a purpose in life (1:19-26) We have an oppor- tunity to grow in our faith (1:27-30) We have the blessing of unity (2:1-4) We have the honor of possessing humility (2:5-11) We have salvation (2:12-18)

4. We Can Rejoice in the Lord Because We Are Servants On the surface this statement seems to be a bit of an oxymoron. How can anybody be happy or rejoice in the fact that they are serving others? Isn’t happiness or joy achieved when we have reached the top and as a result have others serving us?

5. What Are the Qualities of a Good Servant? A good servant cares for the well being of others. (2:20) A good servant seeks after the things of Christ. (2:21) A good servant possesses proven character. (2:22) A good servant is willing to work alongside others. (2:25)

6. What Are the Qualities of a Good Servant? A good servant ministers to others. (2:26) A good servant is willing to be sent. (2:28) A good servant does not regard his or her own life. (2:30) A good servant supplies what is lacking in the lives of others. (2:30)

7. What Does a Good Servant Do? Hears the cry of those in need Helps to meet the needs of others Heals the hurt others are experiencing Honors the lives of every person Harmonizes the world around them with love and compassion Hopes to glorify God in all things

8. How Should We Respond to a Good Servant? Receive that servant of the Lord with all gladness. (2:29) Hold such people in esteem! (2:29)

9. Final Thoughts We can rejoice in the Lord because we are servants in the greatest cause on earth! And we can rejoice in this truth because when we choose to serve: –We become like Jesus. –We fulfill the purpose God designed us for in this life. –We have chosen the pathway to greatness.