"Rejoice in the LORD always; again I say, Rejoice. Let all men know your forbearance. The LORD is at hand." Phil. 4:4,5
JOY in the Christian life becomes a habit, woven into our personality. The believer is sure of God's love in Christ Jesus. He is secure in the forgiveness of God through the work of Jesus. St. Paul reminds us that we can therefore rejoice at all times.
The Bible doesn't say joy is a fruit of curcumstance; it clearly states that joy is a fruit of the Spirit. To live a joy filled life, we must "walk in the Spirit" Then we can rejoice in spite of our circumstances. Paul was in prison when he said, "Rejoice in the LORD always. Again I will rejoice."
The present joy of having Christ as Savior is increased by the hope of future joy. Christians built up their hopes in the common greeting. "The LORD is at hand." Opposition could be hard, but they could endure all ridicule. They could not forget the nearness of their LORD. His coming brings the completed joy when He says, "Enter into the joy of your LORD."
Christian friends, Your choice to rejoice may irritate some, but it will encourage others and glorify God. The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts.
God takes delight when we rejoice In all that He has done And when we thank Him for the love He shows us through His Son.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - Joy comes from the LORD who lives within us, not from what's happening around us.
