How many times have you thought “ If only [insert current hardship] would clear up, I’d be so much happier!” or, “ When this is all over, life will be good again…”? I’ll be honest with you- I catch myself thinking that on a (sadly) regular basis. However, this isn’t the way to think- or even to live out life.
Philippians 4:4,12 tells us to rejoice always in the Lord. This is the secret to remaining content in all circumstances, whether we are in need or living a life of plentiful harvest. No matter the season we are in, we need to take wishful, fanciful thoughts captive, and live in the moment with the Lord by our side. Many times it is so easy to begin fantasizing about a time in the future when life will be easier, or more plentiful: A time when our finances are in the clear, or a heart is no longer broken.
While we busy ourselves daydreaming about our future, the present trickles past us like a wasted drink leaking out of a knocked over bottle. Fantasizing about future happiness or well being will NEVER bring us fulfillment because fantasy isn’t reality. When we live a life that rejoices in all circumstances, good or bad, we will be blessed with vibrant joy. God’s reality is eternal and unchanging, and though our circumstances may seem bleak, there is a greater purpose to them.
James 1:2-4 says to “consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (NIV).
I leave you with this challenge: NOW is the time to rejoice in the Lord’s presence, not later, not 3 months from now, but RIGHT NOW in THIS moment.
By: Lacey Slifkoff
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