Philippians 4:4-8 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.… As sorrow is attendant on sin, so is joy the companion of holiness. Joy is a feeling of pleasure caused by the remembrance of some past, the possession of some present, or the hope of some future good. I. The Christian looks back on the PAST. Then sin on his own part is seen side by side with love upon God's. He thinks with sorrow of his sinfulness, but remembers the forbearance which withheld the Almighty hand, the goodness that led to repentance and the grace that saved, and so rejoices in the Lord. II. The PRESENT gives the same cause for rejoicing. There is much to abase and arouse painful feelings, but in the prayer which brings fresh supplies of strength, in the grace which is all-sufficient, in the promises, and in the work of faith and labour of love there is abundant cause for joy. III. The FUTURE presents a joyful outlook. The extinction of sin, the removal of all hindrances to holiness, the full blessedness of body and soul in heaven. (Canon Chamneys.) Parallel Verses KJV: Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. |
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