"Always be full of joy in the Lord; I say it again, rejoice! Let everyone see that you are unselfish and considerate in all you do. Remember that the Lord is coming soon" (Philippians 4:4-5)

Not once, but twice said: "Rejoice in the Lord, again I say rejoice!" Surely, the Lord wants us to rejoice always. There are trials that we will face (for our character’s growth), yet "the joy of the Lord is our strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). Rejoicing releases strength in us and it makes true sense when it is in the Lord, looking at what He’s done eternally for us.

About Jesus, our prime example, Hebrews 12:2 recounts: "For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Joy gave the right perspectives to Jesus, strengthening Him to be considerate towards us. Hence, Paul continued by saying "let everyone see that you are unselfish and considerate."

Joy actually makes us selfless in the Lord and we begin to consider others. Hebrews 10:24-25 says it this way: "Let’s see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching." These appeals have a proper aim: they help us stay focused for the Lord’s coming.

The good news: joy is a fruit of the Spirit! So we can have it in abundance through the Spirit who works in us: “That energy is God’s energy, an energy deep within you, God Himself willing and working at what will give him the most pleasure” (Philippians 2:13). Joy-filled!

BeEncouraged❤️ Freely Received. Freely Share

BLESSED DAY❤️🤗