Always...

Last night I went to the Cambridge Bible conference where Rev. Ian Hamilton was speaking on the topic of Christian Joy. It's pretty amazing when you actually think of God's awesomeness, and that in itself should make us joyful Christians. I just thought I'd share some of the points he brought up so we can all bask in awe of the glory of God :)

Philippians 4:4 - "Rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS, and again I say: rejoice!"

I think when we actually read this verse we sometimes tend to forget that Paul was in prison when this was written. He's telling the church to rejoice always in the Lord...while he himself is suffering in exile. What's more, is that Paul isn't suggesting the church of Christ to rejoice, but he's commanding them to.
Maybe some of us are wondering how in the world are we, as human beings supposed to rejoice in all things? We're supposed to rejoice when someone we love passes on? When things go wrong? When we don't know where to go? What we fail to remember however, is that rejoicing isn't based first and foremost on feelings. Jesus himself wept, and that alone teaches us that He didn't forget our humanity.
The basis for our Christian joy is found ONLY on the Lord: not in pleasant feelings, or even in the blessings of the Word; only in who He is, and what He's done for us.
Now...when is the last time we were in awe, and humbled beyond what words can describe ...by the forgiveness of God and glory of the Father?
We have a God whose glory NEVER fails. Our lives are governed every moment of every day by God's sovereign hand..and He does ALL things well! Is that not reason to rejoice?
His love for his people never fails and never wanders and we can be comforted in knowing that His love will never end...because it never began. God's love is everlasting!
All of his promises are " Yes! and Amen in Christ Jesus." In ALL things, God works for the good of those who love Him...is that not incredible? All things!
Goes to show, that the rejoicing life, is the believing life.

Christian joy is knowing that He is yours..and you are His.

Are you rejoicing?