Rejoice Always!

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thess 5:16–18

Have you ever wondered why you see Christians praising God while facing difficulties or challenges? Being a Christian doesn’t exempt anyone from experiencing human emotions like fear and anxiety. These are natural responses to challenging situations and can affect anyone, regardless of their faith. Christians may face the same life challenges as everyone else, including health issues, financial struggles, and relationship problems, which can contribute to stress and anxiety. That’s why Philippians 4:4–8 advises us to trust God and surrender our fears and anxieties to Him. It’s a journey of spiritual growth that takes time, prayer, and often involves learning to lean on God’s strength in the midst of difficulties. Sometimes there’s a misconception that being a Christian means never feeling fear or anxiety. However, the Bible acknowledges these emotions and provides guidance on how to handle them through faith and prayer.

The Bible encourages believers to praise God in all circumstances (Psa 34:1; Phil 4:4), which bring peace and right perspective even during difficult times, freeing and guarding the minds of believers from worries. Therefore, praising God and rejoicing in Him is not just about acknowledging His goodness in times of ease but also about finding strength and peace in Him during times of trial. It’s a way of entrusting our worries to God and allowing His peace to guard our hearts and minds.

Jehoshaphat employed worshipers in 2 Chronicles 20, Paul and Silas praised God extravagantly in prison (Acts 16), and the walls of Jericho were demolished by voices of joyful praise (Joshua 6).

You can praise God in the midst of your challenges. “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Phil 4:4

Kay Alli