Rejoice! In spite of . . . from "His Kindness Year Round"

I have several blog posts sitting in the “draft box” . . . . . just waiting.  But until then, because I miss talking to you, I want to express some things I’ve been absorbing in my life.

Sometimes life feels tough.  That’s our soul (mind, will and emotions) telling us that. And with the help of satan, our soul can be pretty convincing about what we endure.

The more I read the writings of Paul, the more amazed I become at his remarkable ability to undergo sufferings and maintain great joy and peace.   Through it all – multiple beatings; being stoned; stranded at sea; shipwrecked; robbed; going without food or water or clothes; imprisoned, and the list goes on.  He faced great risks and enormous difficulties.

He suffered because of his great love and belief in His Messiah. 

Yet, in spite of all his circumstances, he felt blessed in his weaknesses to receive God’s devoted grace at all times.  He didn’t rejoice because of the circumstances, but because of his passion for the Savior.  He rejoiced in Jesus, not his daily occurrences.  He owned and displayed the supernatural joy from the Holy Spirit. 

Ya know, the feelings my soul tries to convince me of – nothing in comparison to what Paul underwent.  If the Holy Spirit lives in you, let’s rejoice because of the supernatural joy the Lord also provides us.  In spite of . . . . . .

Philippians 4:4 – 9 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.  Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

Your sister in Him,

Robin