Even though he faced harsh circumstances, hurtful people, and the ever looming shadow of death, the apostle Paul found joy in all these occasions. His joy rested firmly on his view of God and not on a horizontal plain. His chains may seem incredibly restrictive but in reality they served to advance the gospel and encourage fellow believers.
“Now I want you to know brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” (Philippians 1:12-14)
We too may find ourselves opposed… and even in chains. Certainly not our choice, but God’s. And, He is always up to something amazing! So, we can confidently say with Paul, “I will rejoice” (Philippians 1:18).