Sometimes, the squabbles among church folk can discourage us and lead us to lose sight of our incredible blessings in God's family. We have many reasons to rejoice in the Lord. Let's not lose sight of those reasons, especially when those around us get caught up in pettiness, division, and rivalry. Let's not let discouragement, grief, or danger wear us down and make us lose our joy. Our joy is in Jesus, an eternal, glorious, and victorious joy . Let's remember our hope is in our resurrected Jesus, our Lord and ever-present Savior. Paul wants us to know that it is time to reclaim our joy!
Video Commentary...
We've included Phil's ToGather video from four years ago as an added blessing to our verse today:
Father, thank you for the joy I have in knowing Jesus. I rejoice in the salvation you have brought me through his death and resurrection. With joy, I anticipate the day of glorious celebration when he returns to share your glory with me and all those who long for his coming. Even in my darkest moments of despair, I thank you for the flame of hope and the assurance of victory that sustains my deep and abiding joy of being your child. In the name of my Savior, the Lord Jesus, I rejoice as I pray. Amen.
"After [the disciples'] prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness."
"[Jesus said,] "The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life...."
"After a while some of the Jews plotted together to kill [Saul because he was proclaiming Jesus as Messiah]. They were watching for him day and night...."
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