The book of Philipians explains that true joy comes only from Jesus. In chapter 1, Paul discusses the joy of suffering for Christ that comes with the privilege of believing on Him. Paul says in v.4 that his heart is full of joy for those who have labored and suffered along with him from the beginning and he is "confident that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus". Paul prays with affection and love for those who are his partners in the gospel, encouraging them to continue to speak the word of God courageously and fearlessly. Paul rejoices that they are preaching Christ and doing so with good motives. He says he will continue to rejoice through their prayers and the help of the Holy Spirit, for "to live is Christ and to die is gain". Suffering for God will be fruitful labor and will cause them to overflow in joy from Christ Jesus. He encourages them , saying " whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ...in one spirit and as one man for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you".
Let us have the same ambition as Paul, to live in eager expectation and hope that we will never do anything that causes shame, but will always be bold for Christ and that our lives and our service will always honor Christ.