Rejoice In The Lord Always

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.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:4-9

The apostle Paul urged the Christians in Philippi to pursue joy in their relationship with Christ.

Instead of a life cluttered with anxiety, he urged them to pray about everything and let God’s peace guard their hearts and minds in Christ.

Looking at our everyday tasks and responsibilities, we see that not all of them are enjoyable. A change in why we do things can bring a transformation in the way we feel about them.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true…noble…right…pure…lovely…admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.”

Paul’s parting words are food for thought and a recipe for joy.

A focus on the Lord is the beginning of joy.

Our Daily Bread – February 7, 2017