Rejoice in the Lord always (2)

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Phil 4:4, *2 Thess 5:16 (NKJV)
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! *Rejoice always.

In a previous post Rejoice in the Lord always (1), we saw that out of everything Jesus could have said when He resurrected, He chose to say "rejoice" first. This, as we learnt, underscores the importance of the command to "rejoice". 

Furthermore, after Jesus left, Paul carried on the message. But this time, he added a very critical component to it as we see in our reference scriptures (Phil 4:4, 2 Thess 5:16). Apostle Paul, by the inspiration of the Spirit of God tells us to rejoice ALWAYS, not sometimes, not most times, but every time! This is very significant because it clearly reveals that rejoicing is not a function of circumstance. If it was, Paul wouldn't say "always" since, as he knew very well, it is not every time one will have reasons to rejoice. So, we are not to rejoice because of what happens or doesn't happen to us. Indeed, it is not every time something happens that will make you rejoice. But you are asked to rejoice always, regardless of circumstance, whether good or bad, because it is for your benefit.

In truth, it is very normal and natural for people to rejoice when things are going well. When we experience good things, rejoicing happens effortlessly. For many, it is instinctive to burst into joy and happiness in the good times, but what happens in difficult times? How do you respond to adversity and challenges? For most, it is difficult or next to impossible to rejoice in such times. However, the bible tells us to rejoice regardless (James 1:2, Matt 5:11-12, Hab 3:17-19). So, choose to respond in joy rather than react in anger or sadness when you go through difficulties.
In addition, Apostle James informs us that the key to rejoicing even in difficult situations is knowledge (James 1:3). When you know or understand the purpose of challenges, it is easier to rejoice always, even in the midst of such situations. The bible tells us our light affliction, which is very temporary, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (2 Cor 4:17). 

Moreover, it is important to note that Joy is one-third of the Kingdom for the kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy... (Rom 14:17). Joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22). It is the recipe for strength (Neh 8:10). It is a weapon of war (Joshua 6:20, Num 10:9). It is an invitation to God; or a request for God's intervention (2 Chron 5:13-14, Acts 16:25 ). It is an expression of gratitude. It is an expression of faith and trust (Psa 5:11). It is therapeutic (Pro 17:22).

In conclusion, it is God's desire for you to be joyful always. So, rejoice in the Lord always. In the good times, rejoice. In the bad times, rejoice also. When you have a reason to, rejoice. When you don't, rejoice also. Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice. God bless you.

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