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What reasons do you have for rejoicing today? Can you name a few?
It is not a new revelation. Giving praise during difficult times has always been a weakness of mine and an area of my life I have asked the Lord to grow me in. I also think a past of suffering from depression makes it even more difficult. It is easy for the flesh to soak into a pool of sorrow instead of JOY. This is why praise defeats the enemy more than anything else because when we choose to praise in difficult times it goes against the grain, the world. It is a supernatural thing that the SPIRIT gives us the strength to do.
Why should we rejoice in our relationship with Jesus?
I am learning more and more that no matter what our circumstances are we can rejoice in our LOVE-relationship with our Creator, our Heavenly Father. This is the secret of being content in all circumstances.
Why is rejoicing in Jesus better than dreaming of the day when we will be happy?
The world creates a fantasy that if we had more money, or a bigger house, or more time off for vacation, or the love of another person that we could be happy, but the reality is- the only one who can give us true happiness is Jesus Christ. He alone= JOY. He says in me you can rejoice always.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7
Rest assure that your feelings will not always match your obedience. What I mean is you may not feel like offering up praise or rejoicing in times of trouble but by doing it anyways you are walking in faith and acting out of obedience and when you do this then the feelings will follow…peace and your Heavenly Father will be pleased and proud of you!
Rejoicing with you,
Jeannie