Let Us Keep Rejoicing in the Lord
What does it really mean to “rejoice”? Webster’s Dictionary says it means to feel joy or great delight. But in a world full of pain, injustice, and uncertainty, that can sound easier said than done.
Jesus told His disciples, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11). He wasn’t saying life would be free of problems. In fact, the world is filled with heartbreaking news—wars impacting innocent people, drone attacks on civilians, political division tearing apart families, and hunger caused by conflict.
So, we may wonder: How can we rejoice in times like these? That’s when we remember a timeless message from a gospel song by Clay Evans: “Hallelujah, anyhow. Don’t let your troubles get you down. If Satan blocks your way, stand right up and say, ‘Hallelujah, anyhow!’”
We’re not ignoring the pain around us—we’re rising above it. Why? Because the Bible says, “The joy of the Lord is your strength. (Nehemiah 8:10). That kind of joy doesn’t depend on perfect circumstances. It’s a strength that comes from knowing God is with us, working through us, and has not lost control.
Paul says it clearly: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). That means we choose joy—not just when life is good, but even in the hard seasons. Why? Because God is still in charge of every time and every season (Daniel 2:21).
This isn’t about being naïve or pretending everything’s okay. It’s about remembering that we’ve been given power through Christ. Colossians 1:11 tells us we are “strengthened with all power according to His glorious might.” And Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” We are not helpless. We are Christ’s ambassadors. And He said we would do greater works because He is with the Father (John 14:12).
So today, no matter what you’re facing, rejoice anyway.
Rejoice because God is still good. Rejoice because your future is in His hands. Rejoice because He’s working everything out for your good (Romans 8:28). Rejoice in the Lord—always.
John 15:11
New International Version
11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
Nehemiah 8:10
New International Version
10 Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Philippians 4:4
New International Version
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Daniel 2:21
New International Version
21 He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning
Colossians 1:11
New International Version
11 being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience,
John 14:12
New International Version
12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.
Romans 8:28
New International Version
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
No comments:
Post a Comment