BUT HOW CAN WE REJOICE WHEN BAD THINGS HAPPEN?
How can a young mother rejoice when she has just delivered a stillborn baby? How can a man rejoice when he has just buried his beloved helpmeet? How can a family rejoice when a call has just been received about a horrible accident? How can one who has been betrayed by an unfaithful spouse rejoice? How can a Christian rejoice when she has been hurt deeply by another Christian?
It truly is difficult to rejoice about any of these situations or any other adversities which arise in our lives. As we continue growing as a Christian, we understand, from God's word, how and why we can "rejoice always" (1 Thessalonians 5:16).
For now, let's just focus on the verse we looked at earlier. "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4).
Our rejoicing is IN THE LORD, in His love, His care, His mercy. Our rejoicing is because of the hope we can have if we are walking in obedience to God's commandments.
"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God" (Romans 5:1-2).
Oh, I get this. It took some time, and life experiences, but I thank God for everything that has happened and is happening in my life, and I pray for everything and everyone.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you, Dena. I know you've had a very difficult time, but oh my... your faith shines through!
God bless you,
Joey