Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4
What do you think of when you think of the word rejoice? My mind immediately pictures a large parade of singing, dancing, and cheering. I envision floats with people on them, confetti falling, and beads being thrown.
If rejoicing is anything like that how is it possible to always rejoice? You may be thinking I have to work 9-5 and it’s a struggle to get out of bed in the morning. There are days that are extremely hard and marked with sadness. Being able to rejoice constantly sounds great but how does it align with reality?The word says to always rejoice.
The key to rejoicing is found back in the original language of the New Testament which is greek. Rejoice in greek put into english letters is chairo. This word comes from xaris which means grace.
Long story short in the greek language to rejoice would be understood as literally experiencing God’s grace. This completely transforms the way we think of rejoicing. Rejoicing is not found in a specific action such as singing or dancing. It is found in experiencing something that cannot be confined, the grace of God.
God’s grace transcends our emotions, our actions, and everyday circumstances. It is available at every moment of every day. No matter how hard life becomes grace is always there.
When Paul and Timothy are encouraging the people of Philippi to always rejoice they are really saying always live in the grace of God. You do not necessarily have to have the emotion of happiness to rejoice. Even in times of extreme sadness you can still recognize and enter into the presence of grace.
Today no matter what you are going through take a moment to dwell on the grace of God. Think about how he has saved you and given you an eternal hope. Think about the promise of ruling and reigning with him forever. When you take time to meditate on these things it is impossible not to rejoice.
By: Danielle O'Neil @danielleoneil.com
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!