Rejoice

I think I’ve learned a lot in the last month or so about giving thanks in all circumstances.  It is tough times in our lives that produce growth. 

When you find yourself in difficult circumstances, it is important not to focus on the situation.  If you do, you will find your mind becomes darkened.  You start to take for granted God’s love, goodness, grace, salvation, etc…  You look at everything that is wrong in your life and start to refuse to enjoy life until those things are “fixed”.

When you are in this darkened place, it is easy for the enemy to attack you.  It is also easier for you to believe the lies.  So what is the solution – rejoicing and thanksgiving. 

Circumstances are irrelevant in your spiritual life.  You live for Him and so be content in whatever circumstances you find yourself.  You know that God designed you before the foundation of the world.  Time doesn’t exist for God.  He already knew everything that you were going to go through when you were born.  His everlasting love is at work in every event in your life.  So wherever you find yourself, be who you are, live in that moment, and do it all for the glory of God.  Life is lived for Him, to Him, through Him, with Him, and about Him.  Everything is about Jesus.  So what is left …  rejoice, rejoice, rejoice, rejoice.  Why – because He is big enough, strong enough, perfect enough, wise enough, lovely enough, sustaining enough in every circumstance.

Approach Him with thanksgiving.  Some days will flow smooth and others will be a mess.  When you are struggling, seek His face.  Talk with Jesus about what you are experiencing.  Be honest - He already knows what your are thinking and feeling.

God’s agenda is to make you more like Jesus and He will do what He needs to do to bring about this transformation.  He loves you – trust Him.  He is good.  He is sovereign.  He is committed to whatever is best for you.

Rest in His goodness.  Trust His character.  His grace is sufficient for you.  He is in complete control. 

Rejoice – The God that created the universe loves you, cares for you, and walks with you through every circumstance in your life.

 

Philippians 4:4-7

“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 your minds in Christ Jesus.”

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Ephesians 2:10

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.”