Discovering Joy in Philippians

A Creative Devotional Study Experience

Share the Joy

If difficult days have ever left you discouraged, this interactive 11-week journey will help you engage creatively with God’s Word and establish habits that lead to greater joy and peace. Refresh your delight in the Lord through:

  • Daily Lessons with an introduction and key questions for each chapter to help you dive deeper into the heart of Scripture and incorporate it into your life with joy builder activities
  • Choosing Joy Devotions and inspirational quotations to stir hope even in difficult times as you learn to trust God’s faithfulness and rest in his strength no matter what circumstance you find yourself in
  • Creative Connections including bookmarks and coloring pages that provide an outlet to knit your heart to God and explore your faith through artistic expression

“…that your joy may be full.” John 15:11

This unique discovery book includes ideas for group studies, verse-inspired artwork to color, fascinating details about the Bible, and online connections and communities so you can build up your joy and build up others!

Teaching videos available now!

AWSA Golden Scrolls
2020 Best Bible Study Book First Place

Meet the Authors

Jean E. Jones

Jean E. Jones

Author

Jean is a Bible teacher, a member of Women in Apologetics, and a member of Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. She has published on Crosswalk.com, in "Today‘s Christian Woman," and in "Home Life." She’s happily married to her high school sweetheart, Clay, a visiting scholar at Talbot Seminary.

Each chapter has five lessons from Jean that will take you deeply into God’s Word and help you apply it to your life. She also provides sidebars with extra insights for both seasoned Christians and seekers who thrive on details.

Pam Farrel

Pam Farrel

Author

Pam Farrel and her husband, Bill, are the authors of 46 books, including "Men are Like Waffles--Women Are Like Spaghetti" (more than 300,000 copies sold) and "Red-Hot Monogamy." In addition, Pam has written "52 Ways to Wow Your Husband" and "The 10 Best Decisions a Woman Can Make." They are co-founders and co-directors of Love-Wise, an organization to help people connect love and wisdom and bring practical insights to their personal relationships.

In the Discovering the Bible series, Pam contributes a devotional for every chapter. She shares why taking the time to do the study will enrich, encourage, and equip you with handles to hold on to hope. She offers honest, sometimes raw, personal examples of how Scripture affects her own life.

Karla Dornacher

Karla Dornacher

Author & Illustrator

Karla has written and illustrated 15 Christian gift books. She continues to inspire and encourage others through her coloring books, blog, Bible journaling, and social media. She and her husband, Michael, make their home in Washington State.

She not only illustrated all the books, but also shares inspiration and ideas to help you see God‘s Word through your own creative lens and express it through your unique artistic talents. You’ll be encouraged to use the creative moments you have during this study as opportunities to hear God‘s heart for you as well as to hide his Word in your heart. And you’ll discover a few design, coloring, and hand-lettering tips to jump start your own creative journey through Scripture.

Contents

Order from Your Favorite Online Retailer

What Others Say

There is no joy without Jesus! Only happiness that depends on happenings. Knowing Christ brings Joy. This is what our distraught world needs. Read Discovering Joy in Philippians, a new creative Bible study experience.

Wow, not gunna want to miss this one! Pam Farrel, Jean E. Jones, and artist Karla Dornacher are taking us on the best kind of Bible study joy ride in Discovering Joy in Philippians. Practical, blessing-filled devotionals that pack a deep and scriptural happy-punch, paired with fun, creative activities that help bring those principles to life in our hearts. Strap yourself in—we’re talking about a joyously wild ride right here!

I absolutely love the “Discovering” Bible study series! These books are rich in biblical insight, accessible in approach, personal in tone, practical in application, and beautiful in appearance—a rare combination. Discovering Joy in Philippians will undoubtedly help you discover fresh insights into the lasting joy we can all have in Jesus, whether you’re new to Philippians or have read it for many years.

Craig Hazen

This study of Philippians is truly a feast of joy and thanksgiving from the Lord. It is surprisingly meaty in its content and delightful in its presentation. The authors Jones, Farrel, and Dornacher poured their hearts, minds, and lives into it and it shows. I can’t recommend it more highly. I can say with great confidence that many lives will be changed by the experience of spiritual growth that this study beautifully facilitates.

Alisa Girard Childers

The authors have given women another tremendous resource for studying the Bible. By engaging the imagination as well as the intellect, they help the reader dive into the text in a way that facilitates understanding, interpretation, and application in practical and creative ways. They have made studying Philippians a true joy!

This book came to me during a time when I felt I had reached rock-bottom. Discovering Joy in Philippians is like having a best friend who is willing to listen, empathize, but also give the tough-love advice that only a true sister in Christ is willing to give. It reminded me of the power of forgiveness and spurred me on towards the self-sacrificing goal of being a joyful worshiper even when life is harsh.

Discovering Joy in Philippians is a rare gem—a Bible study geared towards women that beautifully blends the elements of personal story, meaningful creativity, and serious study of Scripture all together in a way that ministers to the different dimensions of the soul. I will be recommending it to all the women in my life!

Faith and science author

These three authors know that hardship is unavoidable, and joy is a choice. With their diverse backgrounds they take the reader on a journey in Philippians and help us uncover the lessons we can learn from Paul in all circumstances. This book is relatable whether you’ve read the Bible all your life or are new to the whole concept of Bible reading. It has something for everyone. Get it now before it sells out! Perfect for your small groups too.

As a women’s ministry director, I consider vital components when choosing a Bible study. This series of Discovering Joy in Philippians is off-the-charts amazing! It is both interactive and inductive as it leads the reader into a place of lingering with the Lord. It Invites the reader to engage all senses while entering into a place of worship. To have this kind of resource available is sure to bring each reader into a deeper fellowship with God. Thank you to all three authors for their obedience in following the vision the Lord entrusted. We are all benefactors.

I don’t know of anyone who doesn’t long for a more joy-filled life. In Discovering Joy in Philippians, Pam Farrel, Jean E. Jones, and Karla Dornacher take you by the hand and lead you on a journey through the Scriptures to discover lasting joy through the ups and downs of life. More than a Bible study that skims the surface, more than a fill-in-the-blank workbook, the authors dig deep to help readers securely sink their roots into God’s Word.

Sharon Jaynes

Choosing joy amidst life’s tough stuff isn’t our natural bent, but it can be done. Discovering Joy in Philippians walks us through the process. It explains the historical context and details surrounding Paul’s letter and then shows us how to apply timeless, transformational truths. I highly recommend this study for individuals and small groups wanting to experience joy even when life stinks.

Grace Fox

They say that when we can engage more than one of our senses, our experience—whatever it is—becomes not only richer, but locked into both our memory and our soul. I can’t imagine a more senses-engaging, biblically solid, beautifully written and beautifully presented feast for the soul than Discovering Joy in Philippians. Delights on every page. Encouragement to dig deeper. And what our hearts crave–a fresh look at a familiar and life-altering topic.

Cynthia Ruchti

As both a pastor’s wife and Bible study teacher for the past 25 years, I’ve had the opportunity to do countless Bible studies, so when a study as good as Discovering Joy in Philippians comes along, I’m eager to sing its praises. Jean E. Jones has woven a perfect tapestry of both biblical insight and practical application that’s hard to find in today’s studies. This Bible study will have you digging into God’s Word, finding nuggets of truth simple enough for the new believer, but deep enough for the veteran. But more importantly, you’ll learn to apply God’s Word through the three authors’ creative and practical application steps. Week after week, our women raved about what they learned and how the study equipped them to experience God’s joy and peace despite circumstances. Truly, this study will change your life.

Donna Jones

As a former educator, I know that people learn in different modalities. Some are visual learners. Some learn better audibly. And some are kinesthetic learners. Discovering Joy in Philippians is a treat for anyone who wants to learn how to find joy in all circumstances. The teaching is biblically solid, and the artwork is a joy itself. This book is a treasure that will help Christians choose joy for their lives.

If your life is in a rut or your circumstances are so challenging that the concept of living with joy seems like something only other people experience, you are in for a delightful surprise! Discovering Joy in Philippians is an exciting and interactive adventure that Pam, Jean, and Karla have crafted to help you realize that joy is a choice that can transform your life when you meditate and truly believe the profound truths found in the book of Philippians.

Discovering Joy in Philippians is the perfect tool to help you choose joy while walking hard places. Creative, innovative and stunning, this Bible study will prompt a newfound delight in God’s Word!

If you enjoyed Discovering Hope in the Psalms you are going to love Discovering Joy in Philippians. The fourth chapter of Philippians is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible and I can’t wait to experience joy with my sisters in Christ as we go through this amazing study together. These three women have created a magnificent, interactive study that will bless and bring joy to women for many years to come.

Carole Lewis

If you’re looking for a totally different kind of Bible study to go through with your small group or on your own, Discovering Joy in Philippians is a great choice! Deep truth is woven throughout each session, combined with uplifting practical applications, exquisite artistic touches, and fascinating sidebars about the historic and cultural backdrop for this book. I love the creative design of this powerful resource.

Carol Kent

Discovering Joy in Philippians is a beautiful collection of thought-provoking devotions and scripture-infused art. This book reminds us of the joy available when we wholeheartedly pursue God and spend time meditating on His word. It would be a great addition to any wellness center’s resource list and a wonderful gift to a friend in need of more joy.

Saundra Dalton Smith

This isn’t just a Bible study guide. It’s an all-out, interactive adventure with the Word that will lead you right to the source of true joy: Jesus. The study content is comprehensive, the creativity and questions are compelling, and the prayer prompts are personal and insightful. Look no further. Discovering Joy in Philippians is the inspiring journey your heart, mind and soul need.

As a lettering artist and faith-illustrator, I am enamored by Karla’s charming illustrations, which enhance every chapter of this powerful book. Karla’s beautifully rendered coloring pages and bookmarks allow readers to grow closer to God as they take time to reflect on God’s Word while expressing their own creative gifts.

Like the perfect blend of flavor and spice, these authors bring the joy of Philippians to life. They take you deep, but also play with the nuances of the text that make it fun. As I read this book I wanted to linger and roam in the chapters, and the drawings and creative activities provided the perfect chance to settle in. I’ll rush to enjoy all of the books these three talented writers create!

What a beautiful journey through the book of Philippians!

Joy is more than a state of mind, it’s also a fruit of the Spirit. As Christians we have the distinct privilege of not only being able to choose to be joyful, we can also experience the fullness of joy through trusting in the Lord and in his Word. Pam, Jean, and Karla have designed an incredible study on the book of Philippians that leads us to dig deeper into God’s Word and discover what Scripture has to say about joy. One element that I always look for in the Bible studies I go through is the author’s ability to include not just historical context, but also other Scripture passages outside the verses being studied. Discovering Joy in Philippians does just that and so much more to give readers a big picture understanding of how they can live a more joy-filled life. From their “The Little Details” sidebars to their “joy builder” suggestions, this study has something for everyone to enjoy.

Discovering Joy in Philippians is an enlightening Bible Study and devotional packed with creative and practical ideas on how to live a life of choosing joy. Relevant and personal stories by the authors help bring the themes of Scripture into the context of our lives. Questions and Scripture readings lead one to learn how to grow in becoming a joyful worshiper. Helpful history gives the background of the body of Christ in Philippi. Beautiful, whimsical coloring pages and bookmarks offer a visual way of learning and remembering the key verses. The study is very thorough and flows beautifully with the stories and artwork woven throughout.

What’s Inside

Table of Contents

  1. Imagine Philippians in Today’s World
  2. Meet Our Joy Givers
  3. Rejoice in Hardship
  4. Spread the Good News
  5. Build Joy
  1. Discover Jean’s Story
  2. Discover Who You Are in Christ
  3. Give Thanks to God
  4. Rest in God’s Good Work in You
  5. Peel Away False Beliefs
  1. Look for God’s Purpose in Hardship
  2. Discover God’s Purpose in Paul’s Hardship
  3. Embrace the Eternal Perspective
  4. Embrace Living for Christ
  5. Shine by Scrubbing Spiritual Grime
  1. Discover a False Gospel
  2. Stand Secure in the Good News
  3. Stand Fearlessly in the Good News
  4. Stand United in the Good News
  5. Stand Ready to Share the Good News
  1. Yank Spiritual Weeds
  2. Embrace Christ’s Attitude
  3. Be Like Jesus
  4. Discover Joyful Unity
  5. Become a Joyful Worshiper
  1. Value Others
  2. Look Out for Others Like Timothy
  3. Lay Down Your Life Like Epaphroditus
  4. Shine Like a Star
  5. Become a Joyful Worshiper (continued)
  1. Trust Only What’s True
  2. Guard Your Heart
  3. Embrace the Pure Faith
  4. Embrace Confidence in Christ Alone
  5. Discover Godly Reasons to Rejoice
  1. Discover Jesus’s Perspective
  2. Discover the Worth of Knowing Jesus
  3. Discover Jesus’s Power
  4. Discover the Fellowship of Jesus’s Suffering
  5. Make Room to Grow
  1. To Eat or Not to Eat?
  2. Forget What’s Behind
  3. Imitate Shining Stars
  4. Stand Firm in the Lord
  5. Discover Hindrances to Leave Behind
  1. Foil Crows
  2. Embrace Peace with Others
  3. Enjoy Peace with God
  4. Pursue Peace in Thought
  5. Think on These
  1. Discover Contentment in Loss
  2. Discover Contentment’s Secret
  3. Give Joyfully
  4. Give God’s Way
  5. Discover the Way to Exaltation

Book Details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Harvest House Publishers
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 14, 2019
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 224 pages
  • Binding: PerfectBound Layflat
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0736975187
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0736975186
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.58 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 8.5 x 0.75 x 11 inches
  • Part of series ‏ : ‎ Discovering the Bible
  • Categories: Paul’s Letters; Christian Bible Study Guides

For Readers

To help you get the most from your experience, we’ve got links to things we couldn’t fit in the book. The Bonus Bundle includes a leader guide, creative instructions, worksheets, bibliography, and more. The Super Bonus Bundle has 1 timeline, a truth journal, charts, and more. There are also Teaching Videos and a Facebook group where you can share thoughts and projects.

Free

Joy Bonus Bundle

The Discovering Joy in Philippians Bonus Bundle contains:

  • Leader Guide with tips for leading groups
  • Bibliography
  • Worksheets and Lists from Pam Farrel: 33 Days of Joy, Joy Playlist, How to be a Mission-Minded Shopper, Heroines of the Faith, Radiant Joy, Need/Want List, How to Overlay a Verse Over a Photo
  • Book recommendations
  • 11 key verse memory prompts
  • Links to related articles, music and videos
  • A subscription to Jean’s monthly newsletter with encouragement, reviews, and news

Bundle update 9/11/2023

Joy Super Bonus Bundle

$10.00

Joy Super Bonus Bundle

The Joy Super Bonus Bundle contains more helpful bonuses:

  • Everything in the Bonus Bundle
  • Suggested Discussion Questions for each chapter, including time estimates and key passages to read
  • Timeline: Jesus, Paul & Philippi
  • Glossary
  • Truth Journal with worksheets for the following:
    • Truths
    • Remembrances
    • Scripture
    • Scriptures to Pray
    • Prayers
  • Chart: Truth Statements with Scripture
  • Chart: Minimal Facts
  • Chart: Joyful Worshipers
  • Abby’s Chapter 10 Supplement (peace-giving verses, psalms to pray, list of God’s names)
  • 8 more memory prompts

Teaching Videos

Join us in studying Discovering Joy in Philippians—a 12-session study taught by Jean E. Jones on Philippians that will help you establish habits that lead to greater joy.

Register here: Discovering Joy in Philippians Online Bible Study.

Find & Share Inspiration

How are you creatively immersing yourself in the scriptures you’re studying? Do you want more inspiration? To share your creations and comments and see what others are creating, click this link and then click Join: Facebook group Discovering Joy in Philippians.

Discovering Joy in Philippians