Tag Archives: Rejoice

Rejoice!

April 18, 2013

Comments Off on Rejoice!

At the time of this writing, it has been a tough week for some folks around the country. Unfortunately, we often hear that there has been an event that leaves people hurting. It is times like these when we understand exactly what “not guaranteed tomorrow” means.

We have the benefit of a lifestyle that provides comfort and reassurance that there is something better waiting for us. Paul often closed his letters with a few exhortations. (especially Philippians 4:4-9, 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22) I appreciate that he nearly always reminds us to rejoice. (2 Corinthians 13:11 – if you are using KJV, NKJV or ASV you will see “Farewell.” The correct word from the Greek is “Rejoice.”) The first century church was going through some very tough times, yet Paul keeps reminding them to rejoice.

I encourage you to keep living in a way that keeps you rejoicing, and be ready to give account for why you can when your friends ask. (1 Peter 3:15)

Continue reading...

Paul’s Recipe for Reducing Stress pt 1 – Rejoice!

September 19, 2012

3 Comments

Philippians 4:4 – Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

To sum it up in a couple of words, the Philippian epistle is often called the “happy letter”. Paul was Nero’s prisoner and Christians were beginning to truly understand what persecution was, yet Paul penned a very upbeat and encouraging letter.

We have never been promised an easy life just because we live for the Lord, but how can Paul be so upbeat in this difficult time? Look at Philippians 1:21 – Paul tells us that Christ gives his life meaning, and his death will mean the gain of Being with Christ.

James offers counsel in James 1:2 by saying: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations. Our challenges are going to strengthen us and train us for what life brings us. In 1 Peter 4:12-13 Peter tells us to …think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.

The Lord desires that we be happy even though we have a lot of work to do here in this earthly life – There is no reward when there is no labor. If Christ is what gives your life meaning, there isn’t anything else that really matters or needs to be worried about so… Rejoice!

Continue reading...