SATURDAY January 8, 2022

Rejoice in the Lord

Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.
Philippians 3:1

Paul was winding down his letter to the Philippians. As he began to start closing down the book, he wanted the Philippians to understand his viewpoint. Although imprisoned in Rome, he considered himself a prisoner of Jesus Christ, not a prisoner of Caesar Nero.

Therefore, Paul rejoiced in the Lord while in chains and never once complained about his circumstances. Paul kept his eyes focused on the Lord. That is why Paul could say, “Rejoice in the Lord!” He encouraged the believers to also rejoice in the Lord, no matter their circumstances.

There are so many circumstances that people go through in life. Some of them experience deep depression or oppression. Of course we do not rejoice in our circumstances, but we must learn to rejoice in the Lord! A person does not rejoice because they cannot pay the rent at beginning of the month or that they have developed cancer. God may be moving them into a different location, and those with illnesses experience His strength for each day. People can rejoice knowing God is in control and He knows what He is doing. God is working out His plan and purposes––His will.

When trials happen, people often get mad at God. They are unhappy because of what they have to go through––or what God has allowed in their lives. They have a bad attitude. Yet if only they would realize that He allows trials to break the mold of self! God wants them to be molded and shaped into His image.

It is important to resist becoming so stiff and ridged in your own desires for your life. Know that God loves you so much that He does not want you to remain the same. God is building character in your life. No matter the trials, make sure you remain perfectly aligned with the will of God.

Joy is the natural outcome of the Christian's obedience to the revealed will of God.
~John Blanchard~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!