Monday, October 1, 2012

The Source of Your Strength

"One Year Bible" New Testament Passage (for Mon., Oct. 1, 2012)
Philippians 2:19-3:3
Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. For me to write the same things to you is not tedious, but for you it is safe.  Philippians 3:1 (NKJV)

Repeatedly in this short letter to the Philippians, Paul calls us to "REJOICE IN THE LORD."  In the 104 verses of Philippians, we find the words "rejoice", "joy", or "glad" 20 times!  Also, lest you forget, this epistle was written from a JAIL CELL.  Out of difficult circumstances, Paul speaks to us of joy!

Most of us do not like being told what to do.  We like to do things our own way in our own time.  Especially when it comes to attitude, we bristle if someone tells us to have an "attitude adjustment."  But that is exactly what God tells us here.

He repeatedly tells us to develop at "attitude of gratitude."  Have an outlook of joy and thankfulness -- no matter what your circumstances.  He says that this is not "tedious."  In other words, this is not trying to be picky and to jab you when you're down. 

Instead, He says that it is for your safety!  Nehemiah says that the "joy of the Lord is your strenght." (Neh. 8:10)  You are strong when you are glad in God.  You are at your best when your face is reflecting God's glory. 

There are perhaps not many things that you can control in life.  But, this one thing you CAN control.  So, today, be glad in your God!

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