Having joy in our God and in the salvation He offers is a theme throughout Scripture (1 Samuel 2:1; Nehemiah 12:43; Psalm 2:11; 5:11; 9:2, 14; 32:11; 100:2; 118:24; 122:1; 126:3; Mark 4:16; Romans 12:12, 15; Galatians 5:22). The Holy Spirit through Paul commands Christians to “rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4). “Joy” and “rejoice” are keywords in the Book of Philippians (1:4, 18; 2:2, 16-18; 3:1, 3; 4:1, 4, 10). It is a noteworthy topic to consider and have as a reference to easily look up in your Bible.
In your Bible beside Philippians 4:4 write, “Command—why? (Luke 1:14, 47).” Turn to Luke 1:14 and write, “Rejoice because Christ has come making salvation possible (Acts 13:32-52).” Turn to this passage in Acts and write, “Salvation for all peoples (Acts 15:3).” Next to Acts 15:3, write, “(1 Peter 1:3-9).” Here, write, “Greatly rejoice because Christ’s resurrection gives us a living hope (Romans 15:13).” Next to Romans 15:13 write, “Joy comes in believing (obeying) Christ (Acts 8:37-39).” In Acts write, “Joy follows repentance and immersion for the forgiveness of sins (2 Corinthians 7:9-10).” Here, note that Paul rejoiced when the Corinthians had Godly sorrow, which produced repentance. Write, “(3 John 3-4)”. In 3 John, write, “Walking in the truth brings joy (Matthew 5:12).” In Matthew write, “When persecuted—rejoice (1 Peter 4:12-16)!” Here, write, “Rejoice in trials because we share in the sufferings of Christ (Acts 5:41-42).” Here, note that the apostles rejoiced and kept right on teaching Jesus. We must do the same! Write, “(Revelation 19:7).” Let us be a joyful people, continuing in love and obedience to the Lamb, our Husband and our Savior!
