Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Yesterday we mentioned this verse as we explored our response to God working in our lives. We spent time identifying opportunities we had to praise His holy Name. And today we rejoice in Him always.
Life does not always go as planned. Some days it is harder to find ways to rejoice and give praise. And that is fine. It is not a failure on our part to feel the emotions of a stressful day or certain circumstances. But we can find joy in the knowledge that our God is there and He uses all things for His glory. Even in difficult times we can rejoice and praise Him.
Paul wrote this verse while in prison in Rome. He reminds us that even in tough times there is always joy to be found. We have to seek it out, though. We have to actively be looking for it. And we must choose to praise Him once we do find that joy. Paul’s joy came from knowing God was in control, and our joy should be the same. God is in control in our lives, too, whether we think it or not. Therefore, we should rejoice. And with that rejoicing we sing His praise.
Is rejoicing the same as giving praise? No. Rejoicing is the feeling of joy or great delight. Once we feel this we respond with praise.
Is it possible to rejoice when facing trials? Yes! We can still rejoice in the Lord, regardless of the circumstances. We rejoice in the work He is doing in us.
It is this rejoicing that leads us to praise Him. Paul tells us to rejoice always. And yesterday we learned that we should praise Him all day. Thus the two are united. We rejoice always and offer praise all day long.
Rejoice in Him now. He is working in you. Rejoice in the fact He loves you so much and died for your sins. And the praise His Name always.
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