How would you describe the state of your mind these days? Worried? Bored? Numb? Bipolar? Happy?

If you are a Christian, then it should be “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.” “What? How can that be? You are either sorrowful or rejoicing but not both at the same time!” you might protest. But if you understand human nature, you know our emotions are not that simple. Often times, it’s myriads of emotions going through us at the same time. I love how the Bible is so practical and realistic!

“…sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.” 2 Cor. 6:10

We, the Christians, are realists. We do not deny the state this world is in. We do not deny the sad emotions when we deal with our aging parents, divorcing friends, rebellious children, being misunderstood, etc. We are rightfully sorrowful. However, he is not a Christian if his emotions end there. There is another emotion riding in on top of those emotions. And that is one of joy!

One trait of a true Christian is that he rejoices in his difficulties. He rejoices IN his sorrows. Where does it come from? From knowing that at those moments, we are being conformed to the image of Christ. From knowing that it will not last long. From knowing that we have eternal reward in heaven. From knowing that we have a God who went through what we went through.

My prayer is that God’s joy will be in you. Yes, I do ask that God change your unfavorable circumstances. But more than that, I ask that God’s joy may dwell in you in spite of your unfavorable circumstances. Who knows if God brought you those unfavorable circumstances to teach you to have true joy?

PH