Prisons

It is foundational to the impact of the book of Philippians to understand that Paul wrote it while a prisoner of Rome. We say that so glibly at times that we do not understand the physical and emotional hardships of such circumstances. We have not been there ourselves. Yet, despite the circumstances, the epistle is a celebration of joy. The key, I think, is discovered in the very first chapter. Twenty-five times in that chapter Paul mentions his Lord or the Gospel. The focus of Paul's life--wherever He was and whatever the circumstances--was Christ and His saving work, and the end result of such a focus was nothing but joy. Joy is a matter of attitude and mind--what one thinks about and how one thinks. And Paul's thoughts were on Him who is altogether lovely.
I don't know what has you feeling imprisoned by life; what you think has entrapped you into your misery and self-pity, a subtle form of self-idolatry. Focus on Christ and the cross and the "prison walls" will fade away into insignificance compared to the joy of knowing Him who is able to overcome all circumstances for your good and His praise. Don't let your "imprisonment" lead you to a choice of escape that dishonors you and hurts the ones you have been called to love; and, even more importantly, reflects negatively on Him who is your Savior. Don't let a "jail" of any kind steal your joy and replace it with a deepening bitterness toward the God of all comfort. Set your sight on the Captain and Finisher of your faith who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross. Focus on Him and the world will be a joyous, beautiful place no matter where you are in your life.