Day 14 "You Are Joyful"
Beautiful Rejoicing
Good Morning Beauties!
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Philippians 4:4 NIV
Paul is a wonderful example of experiencing joy in all things - even persecution. He wrote the book of Philippians while in prison.
“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:5-7 NIV
Paul continues his instruction to ensure we know how to remain joyful during such difficult times. He teaches us to remain gentle in spirit, know Jesus is with us, give God our anxiety in prayer, remain thankful, ask God for what we need, and to allow God’s peace to guard our hearts and minds. How else can we rejoice always? Thank you Paul!
Of course, there is no better example and no wiser counsel than that of Jesus. The Sermon of the Mount expresses Jesus’ love and personal care for each of us when he says, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” Matthew 5:11-12 NIV
We may not know the persecution of imprisonment and physical torture like Paul, but we all have been wounded by the actions of others. Are you able to quickly forgive the person who hurt you? Do you pray for that person and ask God to reveal Himself to them? Do you remain joyful and focused on Jesus? Selah.
Maintaining joy through hardship is an indication of a mature Christian. How are you doing with your joy? Do you still feel anxious as life’s unfair difficulties come your way? Are you recognizing the attack from the enemy and putting on the Armor of God as your defense? Ask the Lord to reveal what you need to know about any lack of joy in your spirit. Selah.
Just as Paul emplored us to rejoice always, so we too must bring this vital truth to others. Especially now when the darkness is getting darker and people are needing hope like never before, you have the answer - Jesus. They will believe what you say because of your actions, not just your words. Do they see joy? Selah.
Love and Blessings,
Kendra
“For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”