Rejoice Always
Dear Friend in Christ,
“Everything is amazing and no one is happy.” This classic line from Louis CK on the Conan O’Brien show years ago pretty much sums up our culture at the present time, doesn’t it? We’ve never had more reasons to rejoice and thank God (his protection, provision, goodness, mercy, faithfulness, fill in the blank) then we have right now and yet we can’t seem to find a headline anywhere that encourages us to rejoice. This is why it’s so critically important to stay grounded in Sacred Scripture. The Word of God doesn’t change with the current trends of what’s popular, but gives us timeless truth that strengthens us and reminds us what reality is really all about.
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-8).
This passage is one of the most well known and quoted verses for anyone struggling with fear, anxiety, temptation or need of any kind. In the midst of our suffering (remember, St. Paul wrote this while he was in chains preparing for his eventual martyrdom), we can choose to rejoice. By remembering that the Lord ‘is at hand’ we remind ourselves that the present trials (which are very real) are temporary. By bringing the details of our life circumstances to God, he leaves room for our request. As taught by Jesus, we pray ‘not our will but yours be done’ but it’s incredible that God provides us the opportunity to let our requests be known to him.
My encouragement is to remember you’re going to find whatever you’re looking for in life. If you train your mind to look for reasons to complain, you’ll find plenty. But if you train your mind to see reasons for rejoicing, reasons for being grateful, you’ll find those in abundance as well. Let it be according to your faith!
God bless you!
Chris Stefanick
Founder and President
Real Life Catholic
Comments are closed here.