How to Enjoy People in Your Life

The Book of Philippians, written by Paul from a Roman prison, is often called the "Epistle of Joy." Despite his hardships, Paul’s letter radiates positivity, emphasizing joy and fellowship, especially in relationships. If you want to enjoy the rest of your life journey with us through Philippians. In Philippians 1:1-11, Paul shares four keys to enjoying the people in our lives, offering practical wisdom for today.

First, be grateful for people. Paul, despite being beaten, flogged, and imprisoned in Philippi (Acts 16), chose to focus on the positive. He remembered the faith of the Philippian church and their support, not the pain. We can choose to recall the best moments with others and let go of grudges, fostering gratitude for their strengths rather than dwelling on their flaws. To be grateful for the good and pleasant memories is a choice.

Second, pray purposefully. Paul prayed for the Philippians with joy, asking God to grow their love, wisdom, and discernment (Phil.1:4, 9-11). The quickest way to change a relationship from bad to good is to start thanking God in prayer for them. Specific, thankful prayers for others can transform our perspective and even influence them. Instead of criticizing, pray for their needs, and watch how it shifts your heart and their life.

Third, be patient with others' progress. Paul looked at people's futures, not just their past. He was patient with their progress. While people may leave many things unfinished, not God. What God starts doing in your life, he will complete it! Some of us need to learn to enjoy people right now.

Paul was confident that God, who began a good work in the Philippians, would complete it (Philippians 1:6). People are works in progress, and expecting perfection leads to frustration. By focusing on how far someone has come rather than how far they have to go, we cultivate patience and hope, trusting God’s transformative work.

Finally, love people from the heart. Paul’s deep affection for the Philippians stemmed from God’s love, not his own strength (Philippians 1:7-8). God's love is the only kind of love that lasts through heartache and difficulty. Human love falters. Love isn't something I work up, it's poured into us by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5) as we let him live in us day by day, moment by moment. When we let His love guide us, people move from being "on our nerves" to being on our hearts.

Paul’s circumstances—imprisonment, trials, and uncertainty didn’t steal his joy because his focus was on Christ. He saw the Philippians as saints (holy people,v.2), not because of their perfection but because they were called by God. This perspective applies to us: every believer is a saint, with dual citizenship in heaven and earth.

To enjoy the people in our lives, we must choose gratitude, pray purposefully, be patient, and love with God’s heart.

Reflect: Who do you need to thank? Who needs your prayers? Who are you impatient with? By applying these principles, we can find joy in relationships, no matter the circumstances.