Word for the Week

Monday 3 November - Sunday 9 November 2025 

JOY IN THE JOURNEY

Read: Philippians 1:1-30; John 16:22; Romans 15:13

A recent global survey by Pew Research revealed that what people long for most in life is love, joy, and meaning, not wealth or fame, but something far more enduring. And that’s precisely what the book of Philippians offers: a joy that holds, even when life feels uncertain.

The Apostle Paul writes to the Philippians not from a place of ease, but from a Roman prison. And yet, his letter overflows with joy not the fleeting kind tied to comfort, but a deep, enduring joy rooted in Christ. This is joy in the journey. Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness depends on what’s happening. Joy depends on who holds you. It is not a mood we manufacture, but a mindset we choose, a fruit of the Spirit that grows even in hardship. Paul’s joy was not circumstantial; it was Christ-centred. Even in chains, he rejoiced because the gospel was advancing, the church was standing firm, and God’s grace was still at work.

This week, let joy be your posture. Not because life is easy, but because God is faithful. Whether you are in a season of celebration or struggle, remember joy is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of Christ in the midst of it.

Q uote of the Week: “Joy isn’t found in the absence of struggle; it grows where grace is planted and Christ is present.” - Henry C. Ohakah

Prayer to Carry: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of joy, not as a passing feeling but as a deep and lasting grace. Thank You for the example of Paul, who rejoiced even in chains, and for the church in Philippi, who stood firm in faith and love. Help us, Lord, to walk this journey with joy. In our partnerships, make us united. In our prayers, make us faithful. In our suffering, make us steadfast. And in our service, make us generous. May we rejoice in Christ, not just today but every step of the way. Bind us together in Your Word, in witness, and in worship for Your glory and for the joy of all people. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

(PLEASE NOTE Anyone wishing to continue with the Deeply Rooted Daily Devotional, it’s available on Amazon for personal download. Please search: www.amazon.com/author/henryohakah)