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 Rejoice Evermore! (March 13, 2024)

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

As followers of Jesus Christ, we should be the most joyful people on the planet! All too often, however, Christians allow the world to rob us of our joy. One of the Christlike attributes known as the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22), joy is a state of mind and orientation of the heart characterized by abounding contentment, confidence, and hope. Distinguished from happiness that ebbs and flows with changing circumstances, joy is a deep, soul-soothing delight in the LORD and trust in His promises that abide in us whether times are tough or terrific. Our joy springs from the blessed assurance and eternal hope we have in Christ, our Savior! Let us rejoice!

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)

Having been reconciled to God and showered with His mercy and grace by the redemptive work of Jesus at Calvary, believers should have hearts bursting with joy that the world can see. Why? The loving heavenly Father has credited our faith in His precious Son as righteousness and sealed our salvation by the empowering Holy Spirit who inhabits the temple of our repentant hearts. Our names have been written in the Lamb’s Book of Life and we have received the most priceless gift imaginable, abundant and everlasting life! We are bound for heaven where we, like Christ, will have glorified bodies and become heirs to the riches of glory! Let’s rejoice evermore!

“Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.” (1 Peter 1:7-8)



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