The Scriptures emphasize the importance of rejoicing!
The Sabbath is particularly a special time to rejoice—a time to reflect on the blessings that God has given (Isaiah 58:13-14).
Paul urged Christians to “rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4).
James even states that we should rejoice when trials come along (James 1:1-3).
One of the fruits of God’s Spirit is joy (Galatians 5:22).
One key that enables us to rejoice—even during trials—is to remember that we can “rejoice in hope” (Romans 12:12).
We need to remember the hope of our calling to be in the coming Kingdom of God, the hope of eternal life, the hope of forgiveness of our sins.
We need to remember that God promises to bring us through the trials we face (1 Corinthians 10:13) and that He promises that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). These are reasons that God has given us to rejoice!
