Philippians 4:4 says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” God has done so much for us, though we were undeserving: “without strength,” “ungodly,” “sinners,” and “enemies.” (Rom. 5:6-10) To “rejoice” means to be joyful or take delight. It is not just happiness, which is based on circumstance, instead it is focused on the eternal and is a fruit of the Spirit. (Gal. 5:22) As faithful sisters in Christ, God can develop a genuine desire in us to rejoice at all times, even in the midst of suffering to “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God.” (Phil. 3:14) The Spirit uses Christ the Word in us. Practically this is not always attainable on command and we may not be able to maintain rejoicing through our spiritual journey due to the infirmity of our flesh. Sometimes we are sidetracked, lose focus, or overwhelmed.
What is the answer? Stay in the Word daily, knowing that whatever our roles or responsibilities, we can respond using the Romans 6 “Y” in the road: 1) Man’s Way: Yielding to the Flesh: We do what feels good, functioning in old sin patterns. This produces frustration, giving up, or trying harder: basically, fleshly works. This approach deals with the problem on our own under the law, exalting our efforts. It inevitably fails to produce true rejoicing and is unacceptable unto God. 2) God’s Way: Sanctification: We pause to reflect, pray, and access God’s wisdom and power. We choose to believe, dwelling on sound doctrine and led by the Spirit. Christ is then manifest.
Decide to become aware of what you are thinking, exalting, and doing, letting go of ‘your works and efforts’ to rest in God’s power: “…My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (II Cor. 12:9) We can then take pleasure in the challenges, knowing and trusting God is able to work all things unto His glory, setting aside our weaknesses to manifest Christ’s strength and wisdom in us.
To Do: Stop here to read and reread II Cor. 12:7-10 to gain context and a fuller understanding. Also study Philippians 4 to see the process on how to stand fast, rejoicing always. It is not human effort, rather it is the grace doctrine working effectually within us by faith. As the chapter progresses, we see a few of the main topics which are steps to stand fast and rejoice in the sufferings: 1) Vs 1: Selfless love, 2) Vs 2: One mind, 3) Vs 3: Ministry, 4) Vs 4: Rejoicing alway, 5) Vs 5: Maintain moderation. 6) Vs 6-7: Not full of worldly cares, but being in continual prayer. 7) Vs 9-10: Think on and apply spiritual things (sound doctrine) and do them (put them to practice). This brings key resources to the forefront: “The peace of God” keeping our hearts and mind, the “God of peace” with us, contentment, and peace to accept our circumstances, but also to trust the Godhead to strengthen and supply all our needs. Think on this.
