Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. – Philippians 4:4
Have you ever taken a small child to the park swings, put them safely in the seat, and then given the swing a push? The child is exhilarated by what feels like flying, soaring through the air with their feet not touching the ground, maybe having their hair blown in their face. Even when the swing is going backward, and they can only see where they’ve been, their joy continues. Behind the thrill of the swing is the knowledge that they can trust the person who is giving the swing a push each time It goes higher. So, they beg, “Do it again! More!”
The church at Philippi had been founded by Paul during his second missionary journey. They were known for their loyalty to the faith despite dealing with false teachers, some internal conflicts, and persecution from without (Philippians 1:27-30). In his letter, Paul encouraged them to seek intimacy with God daily. He wanted them to enjoy fellowship with each other. In today’s verse, he instructs them to make rejoicing a lifestyle. In the Greek, rejoicing is a present imperative verb. This joy comes from intimacy with Christ and absolute confidence in Him. Theologian C.H. Spurgeon wrote, “If believers are to represent heaven to earth, then joy should be one of our trademarks, for in Christ’s presence is fullness of joy.” Our joy results in offering praise to the Lord no matter the circumstances.
Rejoicing, Spurgeon says, is “delightful; our soul’s jubilee has come when joy enters. … It is demonstrative. … It sparkles, shines, sings. … It is stimulating… and it influential for good.” Rejoicing is commended, contagious, and commanded for the benefit of the believer. Like the child on the swing, abandon yourself to the joy of being in the continual presence of the Lord. Rejoice over your salvation. Rejoice in His love and make rejoicing your lifestyle. Rejoice!
Today’s Verse: Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Philippians 4:1, 4-9,19-20
Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
