CHOICE TO REJOICE ALWAYS

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Philippians 4:4

The command to rejoice can always be obeyed, even in the middle of conflict, adversity, and deprivation, because joy rests not on favorable circumstances, but “in the Lord.”

Reformation Study Bible

I (Susan) have found this to be true in my own journey. I had to lie virtually flat on my back for four-and-a-half years due to a dislocated knee and the necrotic ulcers on my legs and feet. Turning was excruciating because of the need to put a brace on each leg beforehand, as well as two straps around both legs to enable the legs to move in tandem. The side I have the most balance on is also the side to which my pelvis is swept—a dislocation common in people with cerebral palsy—causing pain when my body weight is on that side. After turning, the braces would have to be removed, inflicting great pain as scabs that had stuck to the braces would come off. However, I could still rejoice by knowing that in the midst of all these difficulties, the Lord is by my side, constantly present.

The struggles of this life, even though they may feel permanent, are only temporary; but the glory of heaven is eternal.

You see, the short-lived pains of this life are creating for us an eternal glory that does not compare to anything we know here.

2 Corinthians 4:17 (VOICE)

Perhaps you are experiencing chronic pain. Maybe you struggle financially. You may have been betrayed by a friend or abandoned by your spouse. Loneliness may encompass you at times. No matter what challenges you face today, you can make a choice to rejoice by remembering all the Lord has done and will do for you in this life and forever.

Father, help us to choose joy daily as we remember and reflect on all You have done for us and the promise of our forever home with You!