* vs 1 - Notice three things Paul put together in verse 2:

* These people were being persecuted, were really poor, yet they were filled with joy!

* Only people filled with the Holy Spirit could have joy in the midst of this.

* If you don’t have joy, you need to re-joy.

* How?

* vs 2 - you have to give away what you have!

* Just like Hannah in 1 Samual 2:1 when she gave away her son.

* Just like Paul says in Philippians 4:4 - rejoice in the Lord always!

* How does this work?

* Peace and joy are linked.

* When we give our situation to God He gives us peace, and this peace brings joy.

* Where your treasure is there your heart will be.

* When you give (your treasure) your emotions will follow.

* It’s like fasting for your physical health - you “give up” food, which empties your gut.

* Then your body experiences peace which makes you feel better (joy).