Can we rejoice when times are difficult, or do we rejoice only when times are good?
Can we rejoice when times are difficult, or do we rejoice only when times are good? Are we truly happy all our days? In our stress-filled lives, it's hard to rejoice. It seems impossible to experience great joy, yet God says, "Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!" (Psalm 144:15).
Actually, of ourselves we cannot be truly happy in Satan's sin-sick world. Trials press upon us, making it very difficult to be happy. Haven't we been there, done that? Let's remember what God tells us, "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials" (James 1:2).
But how is it possible to rejoice when we're suffering great trials? The Holy Spirit is mighty and powerful, ready to bolster us up with great joy. Yes, it is there for the asking, so let's claim God's promise in whatever trial we may find ourselves. "Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full" (John 16:24). God loves for us to be joyously happy as His children even in difficult times. What better way to be a light and example to others!
Serving our fellow man is another way to receive joy in our hearts. By serving, the Holy Spirit flows from the Father's throne, through us and out to others in joy. An example of this might be in praying for others. So many times, the very person I've prayed for during the past week will have a smile and encouraging words for me on the Sabbath. God is a God of joy, and He loves to share His joy with us every day and especially on the Sabbath.
Joy is there for the asking. Let's cry out to God as we seek Him day and night. He provides our every need! "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace" (Romans 15:13). Let's be about our Father's business serving our brethren and fellow man. Let's not forget the widows, our seniors and all those in special need, serving them with joy in our hearts.
" Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4). After all, aren't we preparing to live with our heavenly Father and His Son who are full of joy? Let's look forward to that day, when God will say, "Enter into the joy of your lord" (Matthew 25:21).
