Be joyful always (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NIV).

 

Yesterday is gone, and tomorrow is yet to come, but today is yours to use. Therefore, make the best of today and be joyful. Don’t live in the regrets of yesterday or be apprehensive of the uncertainties of tomorrow. The regrets of yesterday and fear of tomorrow are the enemies of today’s happiness. God wants you joyful, TODAY!

 

Our theme verse says, “Be joyful always.” This can neither be applied to yesterday nor postponed to tomorrow; it’s for the NOW. Whether anybody treats you well or not, be joyful all the same.

 

It makes no difference that those you thought could be of help to you turned their backs on you; remain joyful. After all, God never told you to put your trust in men (Psalm 118:8-9). Whether or not there’s money in your bank account, be joyful. If you allow circumstances, the happenings around you or the actions of others determine your joy, then, you’re not acting on the Word. Remember, the blessing is for those who do or act on God’s Word (James 1:22-25). The Word says rejoice evermore (1 Thessalonians 5:16); so, practise it.

 

Make up your mind that nothing will ever take away your joy. This is a decision you must make. There’s a cooperation that’s required between you and the Holy Spirit. He tells you what to do, but you have to decide to do them. If you say, “I’m going to be ever joyful as the Word of God says, irrespective of circumstances,” He’ll help you make it so.

 

Yes, in Christianity, there’re challenges. But the Lord says in James 1:2, “Count it all joy, when you go through diverse tests”; in other words, “rejoice!” What’s important isn’t the challenges you face but your response to them. You were born a winner, a victor; nothing in this life is set against you to hurt you or make you a victim. The Bible says, “In all these things, we’re more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37). Hallelujah!