“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Joy ought to be inseparable from the life of a Christian. However, one may ask: How can we be joyful in a world filled with violence, injustice, pandemics, and illnesses?
Christian joy is not a superficial and fleeting emotion. The Apostle Paul encourages the church to “rejoice always.” This does not mean we should force ourselves to laugh every moment. Our inner joy comes from our faith, trust, and reliance on God’s will in different circumstances.
The only begotten Son of God, Jesus Christ, suffered for us, was crucified, buried, and resurrected on the third day, opening wide the doors of the Kingdom of Heaven for us. This is the source and reason of joy in our life. Let us always rejoice, pray without ceasing, and give thanks to God in all circumstances.
Indeed, joy and gratitude will keep us on the right path. Joy and gratitude are more than emotions; they are choices, they are acts of faith. They are the firm ground on which we stand when all around us seems to shake. They are the light we carry into the darkness of this world. For in the presence of God, there is fullness of joy, and at His right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11).
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