Rejoice in the Lord Always

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.  Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:4-7)

The admonition of Holy Scripture to find joy in the midst of life's challenges is an encouragement often sought in trying times. Sometimes we read these verses as a prescription that when applied, can positively impact the circumstances we face. As surely as there is a desired correlation between medication taken and the cure that is sought, so too is there a connection between faith and the application of biblical truth, and the ability to move forward with hope in trying times.

In Paul's words from Philippians 4, the key to this joy and peace is found in four simple words; "The Lord is near." I find those four words to be some of the most comforting, encouraging words in all of scripture. They are not a miracle prescription offering the assurance that everything will work out as I desire.  Faith, you see, does not exist as a conduit to personal desire or self-gratification. Though we sometimes use the scriptures selectively to affirm our own interests and desired outcomes, they remind us again and again that God's interest is broader than one single heart, community of believers, or even nation.  Therefore, the presence of God empowers joyful, hopeful living in uncertain circumstances because, as Paul writes, this peace which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

There are certainly days when I wish that presence included a reset button to simply wipe clear my mistakes and the continuing threats and confusion of the world around me. God's presence, however, offers something that in the long run, makes a greater difference, for in God's grace and mercy, I learn to walk by faith, forgiven and strengthened to take yet another step in any circumstance. Later in this 4th chapter, Paul speaks of contentment in every circumstance. This isn't the complacency of a man worn down by life's experiences, but rather the assurance that in and by God's presence, he can do all things.

In these uncertain times, this assurance can empower our steps, and yes, even bring joy. Remember that as your day unfolds. Remember that as you lie down to rest tonight. Remember that when you cast your vote on Tuesday, and when you awaken next Wednesday.

Don't forget to turn your clocks back an hour before you go to bed Saturday night, and plan to join us for the celebration of communion in worship on Sunday morning.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 

Jim Abernathy