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.
"[Stephen moved from reviewing Jewish history in response to the accusation against him to challenging his accusers by saying,] "You stubborn people!....."
"Happy are those who live pure lives, who follow the Lord's teachings. Happy are those who keep his rules, who try to obey him with their whole heart."
"Let the sea and everything in it shout his praise! Let the earth and all living things join in. Let the rivers clap their hands in glee! Let the hills..."
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