Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Philippians 4:4
June 22, 2022
As we have been thinking about the relationship between joy and sadness, it would be helpful to consider some reasons why joy is so often missing in our lives. Why are Christians so miserable so often? (1) maybe because we simply forget. Self-pity is intoxicating and is the great enemy of joy (not having what I envy). We need to give ourselves a good talking to about this. (2) Maybe it’s because we are suspicious of joy. We are commanded to be joyful. It is not an option. Are you waiting on a good mood to visit you? (3) Maybe it is because you stay inside too much. Get outdoors. Start a garden of some kind. Take a walk. Are you taking proper care of your body? (4) Maybe it’s because of a disappointment that has metastasized into bitterness. (5) Maybe it’s because of a stoical personality, a temperament issue, that needs to be soaked in sanctification. (6) Maybe it’s because of a lack of assurance. We can know we have eternal life. Is there an unconfessed sin? Am I grieving the Holy Spirit? H