Just like every other command in the Bible, we benefit from rejoicing. People often think of God as a demanding being who makes our lives boring with rules and commands. In reality, his commands are always for our benefit.
Obeying God’s commands comes with huge benefits. Choosing to obey God brings you closer to his heart and his peace. Obedience is a true gift, but choosing to rejoice, in particular, comes with special benefits.
When you get bad news, it is very easy to slip into a negative mindset. For example, you lose your job. You can decide how you want to react to this development. You can choose the path of negativity, which comes with the belief that you will never recover and that your life is ruined. Or, you can choose the eternal perspective of hope and joy. In other words, you can choose to see that God has a purpose and that he will protect you. You can choose to believe that this suffering is temporary and that heaven is coming up next.
You may have lost your job, but maybe God has something bigger in store for you. Maybe God knew you needed time to rest and be with loved ones. God always has something better in mind – you just have to trust him and adopt the right mindset.
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." – Colossians 3:1-2
Even if you don’t feel happy about something, tell God – out loud – that you trust him. Thank him for what he has done and what he is doing. Ask him for joy and an eternal perspective. Paul doesn’t just say to rejoice always, but to also pray continually and give thanks in all circumstances. Just being in a conversation with God delivers so much peace and joy.
No matter what is happening, choose to rejoice. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances.
You’ll be amazed with how you feel.
Grand Canyon University is committed to following the Lord in all circumstances. If you would like to learn more about GCU’s Christian identity and mission or would like to read more devotionals, please visit our website and check out the GCU Blog. Learn more about the College of Theology and their degree options by checking out our website or requesting more information with the button on this page.