Reasons To Rejoice

Read: 1 Peter 1:1-9

Though now you do not see Him, ... you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory. --- 1 Peter 1:8

The Bible In One Year:
Luke 14-17

The New Testament gives us many reasons to rejoice. For example, Jesus said, "Rejoice because your names are written in heaven" [Luke 10:20]. The apostle Peter spoke of the reasons believers can "rejoice with joy inexpressible" [1 Peter 1:8]. We're not asked to pretend that problems don't exist but to rejoice even in the midst of them.

The word rejoice reminds me of my friend Carol. She chose to rejoice throughout her long struggle with cancer. Her Christian life began within hours of surgery, when she prayed and trusted the Lord for her salvation. During her recovery she walked the hospital corridors saying to everyone, "Isn't this a beautiful day!"

Because one of her eyes had been removed, Carol had a number of decorative eye patches made to match different dresses. Every day she delighted in choosing an attractive eye patch, especially when sharing her testimony. When she became bedridden, she hung a large sign at the foot of her bed that read, "REJOICE!" On my last visit before she died, she pointed to the sign and whispered, "Rejoice!"

Carol's reason for rejoicing was her deep gratitude to Jesus for loving and saving her. Whatever you're facing today, let Carol's reason for rejoicing be yours too. --- Joanie Yoder

Amid the thorny trials of life
God's buds of beauty grow;
If we'll rejoice and not complain,
His peace and love we'll know. --- Sper

IF YOU KNOW JESUS, YOU ALWAYS HAVE REASONS TO REJOICE.