I don’t think most of us think of joy as a choice. Many think it is dependent upon their circumstances. Some even go as far as thinking that joy is beyond them and something they’ll probably never really possess.
Looking at the writings of Scripture, I love what Paul says in Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Here’s some things I take away from this passage:
- It is stated like a command rather than an option. So, all Christ followers should pay attention and strive for it.
- It is to be on-going and not based upon daily circumstances. Paul was in prison when he wrote this.
- This quality was important enough that he stated it twice, back-to-back. Plus, the whole book emphasizes joy while in prison.
- The ability to have joy daily must come from rejoicing “in the Lord.” When I think about His goodness, grace, and love, I can be filled with joy.
- We need to speak joy-filled words. “I will SAY it again…” The more we get in the habit of speaking joy, the more we’ll experience it.
Hope this helps you live a life that is full of joy. Feel free to leave a comment about what you do to help live a joy-filled life.
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