Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: rejoice!”
Always means always. In all circumstances. Note that this verse is a command. Rejoicing in the Lord is not a feeling, but an act of the will. Despite the temptation to lose perspective when things go wrong, I am not to be gloomy or miserable or annoyed or ungrateful. When I recognize that God is present (4:5) and he listens to my prayers (4:6), then I can be at peace (4:7). I find joy when I trust fully in God’s love and purposes for me. Like Paul’s repetition, that’s worth contemplating twice.
Father, please give me glimpses of you and your love and your glory throughout this day. Show me reminders that you are active and present in all circumstances. When things go wrong, help me to look up, pray, seek you, wait upon you – and rejoice always.
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