stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 4:4)

There are many reasons to have joy in the Lord, even during trouble. No situation is too challenging for the Lord to work through. Even when times seem dark and hopeless, there is joy to be found in Jesus. When I went through a tough time of ministry, I had an older man in my church tell me to rejoice. At first, I wondered what there was to rejoice about, given the circumstances. When I met him again, he said the same word: rejoice. I first took it as advice and optional.  I thought it was good in theory and would as soon as my troubles subsided. When we prayed about some things I struggled with, he said, “Rejoice!” I asked him how. I’ll never forget what he said. He confidently and lovingly said, “Rejoicing is not optional. It’s essential!”

Up until Philippians 4:3, Paul has listed several reasons why the Philippians should rejoice, like gospel partnership (1:4-5), progress in the faith (1:24), unity (2:2), and fellowship (2:29). Now, in verse four, he commands them to rejoice. No matter the circumstances, Paul reminded the Philippian believers that joy was always accessible in the Lord. Nothing was too difficult for Him to help them through. Paul was so emphatic about this command that he repeated it – “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice!”

Is it possible to rejoice always? Does this mean feelings of sadness are sinful? How could Paul command something we don’t always feel like doing? There are times when rejoicing seems impossible. If we are not careful, we can guilt and shame others when they don’t rejoice. I think Paul says to always rejoice in the Lord and then repeats it to remind us that it is possible. We have a choice to rejoice. While Paul says we are to rejoice always (1 Thessalonians 5:16 as well), he also tells us to “weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:35).  Jesus tells us we are blessed when we mourn (Matthew 5:4). The Psalms are full of acknowledging sadness and grief. Choosing joy over hopelessness isn’t positive thinking – it’s setting your mind on Christ!

Rejoicing is not faking it or ignoring pain or sorrow. If you are depressed, don’t disregard it – get some help. Rejoicing is more than positive feelings. It is obeying the Lord, believing His promises, and trusting He is sovereign over everything, even in dire circumstances and feelings of despair. We must choose to rejoice and remember where our joy comes from – Jesus! Like Paul, we must intentionally choose “In this I rejoice, yes, I will rejoice” (Philippians 1:18). Because of Jesus, there’s hope, so “rejoice!”

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Is your joy based on circumstances or Christ?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• What has stolen your joy? What difficulty do you need to choose to rejoice in?

Action for the Hands (Do)

• Read all the references to joy in Philippians. What other Scriptures can you find about joy?