“This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.”  Psalms 118:24 NKJV

Each day that the Lord makes, begins with a sunrise! A fresh start, a new day, it gives us an opportunity each morning to thank God and rejoice! God has provided so many blessings in our lives that we can all find things about which to rejoice. We rejoice in finding our mate, in the births of our children, in a job well done, in a life goal met, in healing for our lives, in the salvation of Jesus Christ. Paul tells us to rejoice in the Lord always.

“Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say rejoice!” Philippians 4:4 NKJV

However, as adults living and working in the “real” world, rejoicing does not always come easily.  We face issues and stresses that seem to take our joy away. A cup of coffee and a glorious sunrise are a wonderful start to the day! But then comes getting ready for work, making lunches for kids, taxiing children to school, and dealing with all the problems that come our way.

God doesn’t really intend for us to be smiling and joyful and happy all of the time. We are human and we experience a wide range of emotions! We may all face depression and sadness and frustration and anger. Even Jesus wept with grief when Lazarus was dead. I have to admit, when I get frustrated, I get angry. I don’t like to take it out on those around me (even though it sometimes happens). So I try to take my anger to God; I pray about it and just leave it there. I usually feel so much better just having expressed it. With God’s help I can move on with my day.

Our rejoicing comes from our hope in God. We share the hope and expectation that God (in the form of the Holy Spirit) is always with us. He gives us the strength to make it through a tough day. He gives us peace when the world is chaotic. He gives us wisdom to find the right solution to a problem. He gives us comfort when we grieve. And He gives us patience when frustration angers us (me!). God is with us! We can rejoice always!

This week try to rejoice in a difficult situation by discussing it with God and letting Him help you bear the burden. And change whatever emotion you are dealing with, to rejoicing!

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for rejoicing with me today!