Rejoice In The Lord

[Phil 2:14; Heb 13:15]

In Philippians chapter two, Paul gave us examples for living the Christian life. He pointed out that two signs of unbelief in Christians are grumbling and arguing.

Philippians 2:14 (ASV) Do all things without murmurings and questionings:

Questioning or grumbling (NASB) portrays a doubtful believer, someone who is having trouble believing what God is telling him. I think Paul was relating to the unbelieving Israelites who complained to Moses and to God (1Cor 10:10). Or is he thinking of you and me?

In context: Paul is speaking of how Jesus made the awesome sacrifice for us of becoming a man and dying for our sins. How did He do it? He didn’t do it with grumbling and complaining. He willingly submitted Himself to God’s plan. Likewise, if we want to act like sons of God, we not only need to comply with His will, but we need to do it willingly. If we are willing and obedient, we will eat the good of the land (Isa 1:19).

Rejoicing is one of the traits of a person who has learned to believe. I have heard the definition of a Christian as: someone who is completely fearless, continually cheerful, and constantly in trouble. It is the continual rejoicing during times of trouble that reveals the person is a Christian.

Paul was in jail when he reminded the Philippians (3:1) that true joy is not dependent upon circumstances. The word “rejoice” is a verb. That means it is something we do. “Joy” is a noun. A noun is something we have. We are to rejoice regardless of how we feel, because the truth is, in our born-again spirit, we always have joy.

One way to rejoice is to offer Him our thanksgiving and praise.

Hebrews 13:15, By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

Continually: The Greek verb diapantos, describes a continuous, habitual action.

Prayer:

I thank You, Jesus! Lord, I rejoice in knowing that You are always faithful to Your word. Jesus, You are my wonderful savior and healer. I will continue to praise You.

Lord, my situation does not dictate to me when to praise Your holy name. My circumstances change, my feelings fluctuate, but I will always rejoice in You. Amen.

God bless you my friend,

— Dwight Hammond