Finally, my brothers and sisters,
rejoice in the Lord.
—Philippians 3:1
It’s hard to be happy when you’re hurting. But happiness isn’t entirely at the mercy of circumstance. Here are three examples:
Habakkuk was hurting. His nation was in chaos. The economy was in the tank: failed crops; sheep and cattle dead. Even so, he said, “I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior” (Hb 3:18).
Mary was bewildered. She was going to have a baby. Her reputation and engagement were in jeopardy. Even so, she said, “My spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (Lk 1:47).
Paul was in prison, “in chains” (Phil 1:14). Even so, he wrote, “I always pray with joy” (Phil 1:4); “I rejoice greatly in the Lord” (Phil 4:10). And he counseled his brothers and sisters to “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Phil 4:4).
Rejoice, my friend.
Rejoice, no matter what.
There’s always sunshine after rain.