Choose to Rejoice

DAY 326
8-26-10
PHILIPPIANS 1-4


Good Morning!

In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he speaks about joy and rejoicing 14 times. Is he talking himself into it? Or is he really rejoicing while in prison? Does he really expect the poor and struggling Philippians to rejoice as well? We can learn a lot about the power of joy from these struggling Christians.

What has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. (1:12)
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. (1:27)
Do everything without complaining or arguing. (2:14)
You too should be glad and rejoice with me. (2:18)
Rejoice in the Lord always. (4:4)

Whatever you are going through, the joy of the Lord will make it better. “Better” is a relative term. It does not necessarily mean joy will remove all struggles, challenges, and pains. I think Paul’s point is that in spite of the struggles we can choose to rejoice and that is always better than arguing and complaining. What good does that do anyway?

Christian joy has a huge effect on our lives when we struggle. It is sweeter because we have to work for it. We expect to have joy when life is easy. What’s the big deal about that? But when we mature to the point where we can rejoice even when life is hard, joy is multiplied and appreciated so much more.

So, let the words of Paul, a joyful persecuted Christian, encourage you to “Rejoice in the Lord always.”

Barry