September 20
The Choice to
Rejoice Always
Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Daily Steps
Having established that God is the Source of Joy (Day 263), the new believer must now learn to actively practice this joy regardless of life's circumstances. This short, powerful command from the Apostle Paul, written while he was imprisoned, defines the spiritual discipline of rejoicing: Rejoice in the Lord always.
The peace in this principle is found in intentional celebration:
The Object of Joy: Our joy is rooted in the Lord. This is crucial because it means our happiness is not dependent on circumstances, good health, or financial provision (Day 245). Our delight is fixed on the unchanging character, unfailing love (Day 262), and Sovereignty (Day 219) of God.
The Scope of the Command: The command is to rejoice always. This requires persistence (Day 257) and endurance (Day 224). It is a conscious, moment-by-moment choice to exercise faith (Day 254) and lift our gaze beyond our present difficulty to the God who is bigger than any problem.
The Double Affirmation: Paul repeats the command: I will say it again: Rejoice! This emphasizes the crucial, life-altering importance of this practice. It is a spiritual discipline that requires deliberate effort, but it is the foundation of lasting peace because it shifts our focus from the chaos of the world to the fullness of joy found in God's presence (Day 263).
Your peace is secured by intentional celebration. Embrace the Discipline of Prayer and The Practice of Rejoicing today by making the conscious choice to Rejoice in the Lord always, knowing that this spiritual vitality (Day 261) is your ultimate strength.
Reflective Question
What current difficulty (a trial, worry, or unresolved conflict) is trying to steal your joy right now? How can you consciously shift your focus in the Lord by using this verse to declare, "I will rejoice in God right now, despite this"?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my tendency to let circumstances dictate my emotions. I thank You that You are my unchanging Source of Joy. I pray for the faith and discipline to Rejoice in the Lord always. I receive Your command to Rejoice again, and I choose to place my delight in Your character, not my comfort. Secure my peace today through intentional celebration. Amen.
