by: Russell McLaughlin

Elevate Your Joy

            Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4

            Some “Christians” are prone to look on the dark side of everything. There is a tendency to dwell more on what they have been through than what God has done for them. If you were to ask them about their impressions of the Christian life, they would tell you of their constant conflicts, their deep afflictions, their many adversities and even of their own sinful hearts. It would seem they would overlook any mercy, help, or deliverance they have enjoyed.

            The third verse of the 126th Psalm expresses the feeling that every Christian should have:

 “The Lord has done great things for us,
 and we are filled with joy.”

            The Lord lifted us out of the mire of sin and placed our feet on solid ground. He has given us His Son, who delivered us. He has given us the “peace that passes understanding.” He has given us the gift of the Spirit as a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance. He listens to and answers our prayers. That’s just a few of the things He has done for us! This is only the beginning.

            It would make a great difference in our lives if we would adopt the truth that “the Lord hath done great things for us.” May we focus on all the great things God has done for us! Make a list this week of great things God has done for you and give God thanks! May we be grateful and joyful as we serve God.