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Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. – Philippians 4:4

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Love is a command, but Paul adds to rejoice. Rejoice sounds less like a command and more like a reminder: “Be happy” and “Let go”. Live care free. Do not worry. Do not carry your burdens. Give them to the Lord.

Joy sets us free from condemnation. Love is not always easy but joy can help. We are fragile in our human nature. There are difficult seasons. There are hardships. There is hate. And yet, there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Prov. 18:24). Jesus knows how you feel.

Choose to be happy, regardless of the circumstances. Find something to be grateful and rejoice in it. Small or great, if it brings you joy, cherish it. As we mature in the things of God, Jesus becomes more relevant to us and our joy increases with the understanding that the storms of life help us mature and that all things work together for our good.

The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. (Matthew 13:22)

Joy releases us from the cares of this world, making the word of God fruitful. Rejoice always.

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Prayer: Father, I thank you for this day. I’ll be rejoice in it. In Jesus Christ’s name, amen. Thank you, Holy Spirit.

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