Philippians 4:4

Posted by DJL on Nov 21, 2012 in Daily Bread | 0 comments

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.

What does it mean to rejoice? Really. We say that word all the time…at least in church. And we’ve read it here in Paul’s letter numerous times already. But what does it mean, really?

In brief, rejoicing is simply to take joy in something. Or, to be more precise, to rejoice is to experience and express delight. And both of those verbs matter. It’s one thing to experience delight, to be aware, that is, of something bringing you delight, joy, pleasure or contentment. That’s important. But expressing it matters too.

A lot, actually. Because expressing our emotions helps us not only become more aware of them but also to share them with others. Expressing feelings, that is, often multiplies their benefit. So it’s one thing to experience delight – which is great – and it’s another to express delight – that’s even better.

But Paul doesn’t only say rejoice, he says “rejoice in the Lord.” What does he mean? Simply that in our relationship with God there is the potential to experience faith, hope, love, contentment, confidence, courage, and more. And as we notice these things – that prayer brings a sense of confidence and contentment, that singing a hymn raises our spirits, that reading Scripture may strengthen our faith and grant us courage to face the challenges ahead – we also discover ways to give them voice. And as we voice these things, they grow.

So delight in the gifts you receive from your relationship with God…and express them. Give thanks for what is beautiful and hard and challenging and hopeful in your life and in your life of faith and see what happens. Or, as Paul says, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say it, Rejoice!”

Prayer: Dear God, help us not just to notice the blessings of this life and our life with you, but also to name them, give thanks for them, share them with others, and see them multiply. In Jesus’ name, Amen.