Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Phil 4:4

There are many saying for how one should respond to setbacks in life. We’ve heard the saying “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” “When you get knocked down, get back up.” “Look for the brighter side of life.” These are all encouragements for position thinking and to have a positive outlook that typically draw on personal and internal strength. Times may come when personal strength is not enough, and internal strength is exhausted. What then? Our scripture passage reminds us that the child of God gets and gains their strength always “in the Lord.” Therefore, “Rejoice.” In setback moments and adversity, be reminded to “lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct thy paths” (Prov 3:5-6). Therefore, “Rejoice.” Rejoice that Christ is presence, and He leads the way. Rejoice” and follow Him. In those moments when we are uncertain, hear the Spirit say “be still, and know that I am God” (Ps 46:10). In the stillness of the moment, God will begin to renew your strength and you can “Rejoice.” My friend, the joy of the Lord is a holy joy the delights in God and desires to see God exalted in all things. The child of God can “Rejoice” at every occasion and have “hope…because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us” (Rom 5:5). The child of God is not simply an optimist in life, but a conqueror. “We are more than conquerors” (Rom 8:37) through Christ Jesus who loved us and will lead us every step of the way. Therefore, “Rejoice.” My friend it our duty and privilege to “rejoice in the Lord,” and to rejoice in Him always, and at all times. Lemons can remind us that the sun is shining, and God remains in sovereign control. In the down times, know that God has given you the perspective with the lowly and cast down. In those moments, look up and hear the Spirit say “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord” (Ps 121:1). Therefore, “Rejoice.” Father, thank You that nothing can separate me from Your love. Thank You for Your continued presence and strength through Jesus Christ. I will “rejoice and be glad.” In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.