Rejoice in the Lord Always
Today’s Text: Philippians 4:4-8
SUNDAY MEDITATION

While there is no biblical foundation for celebrating the New Year as it falls on the Gregorian calendar, marking the day provides a pause to rethink the way we live-out our daily routine. We can use the celebration to re-evaluate how we respond to the circumstances we face, the people we encounter and life itself. The following five verses give clarity in this re-evaluation process.

PHILIPPIANS 4:4-8

BE JOYFUL, GENTLE, THANKFUL AND PEACEFUL

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!
Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.

MEDITATE ON THESE THINGS

Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

Determine to permit God’s joy and peace rule your heart. And then, focus your mind to savor all the good things He has in store for you. Enjoy the first Sunday of the New Year!

Charles E. McCracken is an international Bible teacher, long-time friend of Israel and advocate for the Jewish people. Known for authenticity in communicating biblical truth, Rev. McCracken’s presentations are relevant for those seeking to understand the significance of Israel and the church in Bible prophecy. He staunchly supports the nation of Israel and the Jewish people’s right to exist and live in peace.

© Charles E. McCracken 2016, devotional comments only. Repost/Reprint with permission from the author via Contact Form under ABOUT. Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. (Emphasis added.)

IMAGE:
1) Beneath the Snow Encumbered Branches (c. 1901). By Joseph Farquharson (1846-1935) [PD-US, PD-Art] via Wikimedia Commons – Enhancement: MKM Portfolios

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