Is it really possible to be happy all of the time? It is my
experience that the answer is "No." However, it is possible to
rejoice in the Lord always and to maintain a positive attitude (Philippians
4:4,8).
The key words here are "in the Lord." God makes
everything right, no matter how jaded or off kilter they are. Through the lens
of eternity, with a spiritual mind and in the presence of God, we see
everything differently.
We enjoy a Heavenly focus and can truly rejoice regardless of
our negative circumstances. Even when all odds are against us and there is
nothing positive to rejoice over, we know that everything will work out for our
ultimate good (Romans 8:28; Jeremiah 29:11).
When we feel anxiety rise up in our soul, we can immediately
take it to the Lord in prayer, giving thanks for what He has already provided
and knowing that His blessings are just around the corner (Philippians 4:5-6).
God's peace guides us through the troubled waters and rocky
mountain paths, making our ways straight (Philippians 4:7; Psalm 27:11). Even
when the circumstances make no human sense, God floods us with His peace.
We struggle with feelings for which we are responsible. We worry
for our well-being and that of our children and family. The truth, however, is
that God will take responsibility to provide us with all of our needs
(Philippians 4:19).
He gives us wisdom on what to do each moment of the day and he
guides us through uncharted waters and tumultuous seas to the safe harbor of
His love.
Prayer:
Father God, our light and temporary affliction on this earth
cannot be compared to the glory, which You already prepared for us in Your
glorious Kingdom (2 Corinthians 4:17). We stop attempting to keep our self
safe, and we trust our self, our loved ones and our church family to Your
safe-keeping.
We know without a doubt that You care about us, so we put our
worries in Your capable hands. You equip us for every good work (2 Timothy
3:16-17). We rejoice in our risen Savior and sit with Him at Your right hand
even now (Hebrews 10:12).
Thought for the Day:
We trust in God's plan for our future and bathe all of our
requests to Him with gratitude and joy.
