Daily Devotion: Rejoice!

Scripture:
Philippians 4: 4-9

Main Verse:
Philippians 4: 4
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Observation:
South Korea's suicide rate ranks 4th in the world, and the highest among OECD countries, even higher than Japan, and one of the reasons they commit suicide is because of depression or mental disorders. Unfortunately, people who suffer from mental disorders avoid going to psychiatrists because seeking treatment for mental illness is frowned upon in this country. A sad reality.

The apostle Paul gave final exhortations to the Philippian Christians in Chapter 4, and his first instruction was to rejoice at all times, not once, not when we receive blessings, not when we just feel like being happy. Paul said rejoice ALWAYS! He even emphasized it by repeating the word, and in Chapter 3 verse 1, he also mentioned the same. If we are in Christ, there is always reason to rejoice. Even in times of pain and persecution. Even in times of anxiety and affliction. Even in times of distress and discomfort. Even when it's not easy to be joyful. There is reason to rejoice because the Lord's grace is always sufficient. There is reason to rejoice because there is joy in the Lord's salvation! There is reason to rejoice because He has given us His everlasting mercy, love, peace, and so on. 

Application:

Sometimes, we are emotionally distressed because of a heartache or we're going through a rough patch. The Bible does not tell us that when we follow Christ, we will no longer experience any burdens, and Paul is not also telling us that we will never feel depressed. But do you sometimes find yourself feeling sad for no reason?  If you do, just think about the many blessings the Lord has granted unto us. Paul was in so much suffering while in prison, yet he chose to stay joyful. Being joyful is both a choice and a command. So even when we're suffering, even when we're in pain, we can remain consciously joyful in the Lord, and that is when we stay focused on the grace and great blessings that the Lord has given to us through His death.  

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for your marvelous grace and your abundant love. Indeed, there is joy in your salvation. Lord, teach me to always thank you and trust in your sovereign will and to put my faith in you, so that when disappointment comes, I can still remain joyful. This I pray in your Mighty Name. AMEN.