REJOICE

Some people are naturally upbeat, while others play the music of life in a minor key. Men appear to be born with a specific innate disposition, but the temperament of a Christian is based on a decision. Your soul's instinctive attitude about life need not dictate your mindset any longer; the indwelling Holy Spirit allows you to positively respond to the following edict ...

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7

Though Paul had lost his freedom, his letter to the Philippians was filled with the words 'joy' and 'rejoicing'. His resilient disposition emanated from a steadfast kinship with Jesus Christ; imprisonment could not take that from him. When faced with a choice between 'self-pity' and 'joy' ... he chose joy. 

David Roper - Several years ago I read a story about a 92-year-old Christian woman who was legally blind. In spite of her limitation, she was always neatly dressed, with her hair carefully brushed and her makeup tastefully applied. Each morning she would meet the new day with eagerness.

After her husband of 70 years died, it became necessary for her to go to a nursing home where she could receive proper care. On the day of the move, a helpful neighbor drove her there and guided her into the lobby. Her room wasn't ready, so she waited patiently in the lobby for several hours.

When an attendant finally came for her, she smiled sweetly as she maneuvered her walker to the elevator. The staff member described her room to her, including the new curtains that had been hung on the windows. "I love it," she declared. "But Mrs. Jones, you haven't seen your room yet," the attendant replied. "That doesn't have anything to do with it," she said. "Happiness is something you choose. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how it's arranged. It's how I arrange my mind."

There may be no joy in your current situation ... but you can rejoice in your Savior. Though encased in shadows, you can still 'walk in the light as He is in the light'. 

These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. John 15:11

Remind yourself often of all that Jesus has done for you. There is great joy in living fully for Him.