Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice (Philippians 4:4).
INDEPENDENT OF CIRCUMSTANCES;
Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice (Philippians 4:4).
God wants us joyful at all times and for our joy to be independent of circumstances. This was one of Apostle Paul’s secrets of success; he said in Philippians 4:11, “…I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” He’d learnt to live independent of circumstances. No wonder, even while in prison, he was still so full of joy; exuberant with praise to the Lord for counting him faithful to suffer persecution for His Name.
Recall that Paul was in prison at this time, yet he didn’t allow his experience dictate his mood or interfere with the joy of the Lord in his heart. He was so independent of circumstances that he could encourage and admonish the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord always. Some Christians today aren’t even in prison, yet they’re sad and wish things were different. The right attitude for every child of God is to see challenges as springboards for promotion; it’s the way to live at the top all the time.
James 1:2 says, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations.” The reason the Lord would admonish that you remain joyful in spite of the tests and trials you might face, is that the story has already been told! The end has been determined; your testimony of victory in that situation is for sure.
Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” This should form the basis for your joy at all times. You can never be disadvantaged! Someone might ask, “Is it realistic to think we can actually be full of joy all the time?” absolutely! The Word of God is reality (John 17:17); sadly, for some people, “reality” is in the arena of human experiences. But for the one who’s born again, Christ is reality. If you live in Him, and your consciousness is in Him, you’ll be joyful twenty-four hours every day! You’ll be a success on every count, irrespective and independent of your circumstances. This is the reality in Christ Jesus.
Further Study:
Philippians 4:6-7