You may be a Christian without a job, with past due bills you can’t pay, and family problems that seem insurmountable. These are real problems that we all face, and they must be resolved at some point in time. In the midst of these problems, which are real, let me remind you that you have a foundation that will stand the test of time and problems. Recognizing the problems, and these are not peculiar to you, let me encourage you that you have every reason to rejoice today.
” The Bible says, ” Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: rejoice. {Philippians4:4}
Why should we rejoice in the Lord when we are suffering? This is a fair question that deserves an answer. Let me give you three reasons why you should rejoice in the midst of difficulties.
First, we rejoice in the Lord because we know that whatever we suffer as believers in this world there is no comparison to the reward that our Heavenly Father has for us when we meet him one day. The Bible teaches about momentary light afflictions followed by an eternal weight of glory (Second Corinthians 4:16 and 17). The Bible also says, ” In everything g ive thanks for this is a will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (Thessalonians 5: 18) Notice also in this verse it does not say FOR everything give thanks but rather IN everything give thanks. There is a world of difference in these two words in this verse.
A second reason to rejoice in the Lord is that He gives us a peace of heart that is totally different from any other peace available. Jesus said:
“Peace, I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid” {John 14:27}.
Peace that the world gives is based on various things such as financial security, physical health, professional success, and community status, just to name a few. All of these things are temporal and could disappear tomorrow. True lasting peace is not offered by the world, but this is what the Lord gives to us.
Finally, we should rejoice in the Lord because of his promise to care for us as a father care for his children.
” As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him {Psalm 103:13}.
Before Jesus left this earth to return to heaven, he told his disciples: ” I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” {John 14:18}.
And again, the promise is: ” Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you”. {Hebrews 13:5}.
Whatever your needs are let me encourage you to seek the Lord, and if you know Him as your personal friend and Savior to rejoice in Him today.