Rejoice in the Lord always

Philippians 4:4-5
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

A Christian’s joy should not be dependent on our immediate circumstances in life. It is based in the Person of Jesus Christ, and the salvation that we have through His atoning blood. We will never be in hell because of the work of Christ on the cross for us, this is always cause for rejoicing!
Our joy in life can be present even in times of great despair when we keep our eyes fixed on Christ. Romans 8:28 tells us that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.

That being said, we lose our joy when we let the things of this world distract us from our relationship with Jesus. When we lack time in Scripture and in prayer to Him, we are susceptible to the attacks of Satan. When we spend most of our time with ungodly people, or even so-called Christians who are not living a Christ-centered life, this will suck the joy from us. Yes, we have to be around the unsaved in life to a certain extent, but we need a network of strong, godly, joyful people in our lives to help build us up for Christ. To remind us that God will never leave us or forsake us. I have a strong network of Christians in my life that I can turn to for Christ-centered advice and counsel when times are trying, and I thank God for them.

The Bible has much to say about “joy”, and how Christians are to be filled with it.
Nehemiah 8:10…the joy of the Lord is my strength.
John 15:11
“I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
Acts 2:28
You have made known to me the paths of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence.
Romans 12:12
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Then Paul urges us to conduct ourselves with gentleness, so much so that we are known for this attribute in our lives. This world’s treatment of others can be very harsh and heartless, as God’s children, we have His Spirit in us and can show gentleness in such a way that many will know we have Christ in our heart just because of our willingness to put others needs above our own and seek good for them, not just looking out for ourselves!

Thank You Jesus for dying for my sins and securing a place for me in heaven when I die, no matter what comes in life I can always rejoice in this fact! Help me to show gentleness and compassion in all my dealings with others Lord for I love You my Savior, and I give You praise, honor, and glory this day, my Redeemer, Amen!