Monday, May 6, 2013

Are You Rejoicing Yet?

 

4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.
4:5 Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.
4:6 Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:4-7


 
During my summer vacations I work as a leader and trainer for an indoor challenge-and-fitness center. Sunday school classes and birthday parties are held at the center, where participants enjoy rope climbing, obstacle courses, and other competitions.







When I first meet my assigned groups and explain the rules, I try to exhibit excitement in order to get them ready for the games. I always shout in an animated voice,

 “Raise your hand if you’re ready for some fun!” Usually only one or two people raise their hands. I tell them, “Well then, fun will come to you!” The difference is that for those who raised their hands, enjoyment starts immediately; the others have to wait. People are often bogged down with the cares of life and have difficulty rejoicing. Paul told his readers that someday they’d be redeemed and ushered into God’s kingdom. But why wait until then to rejoice? He invites us to begin rejoicing now.

Prayer

Dear God, help us to experience the joy of living in your kingdom, beginning right now. As Jesus taught us, we pray, “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.”* Amen. *Luke 11:2-4 (KJV).
 
Prayer focus - To find joy in every day
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