CHRISTIAN LIVING

  4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. - The term “rejoice” is translated from the Greek word chairo. Paul used the same word in Philippians 3:1. The apostle also spoke of rejoicing in the face of persecution in Philippians 2:17, saying, “…if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.” The joy experienced in being a follower of Christ is much greater than can be comprehended by those in the world. Men often seek pleasure and happiness in shopping, food, entertainment and material possessions. At best, these things are temporary joy meant to bring pleasure only for the moment. Material things soon rust and the enjoyment of a dining experience is quickly quenched. But joy in Jesus Christ is eternal and sustains us even in the most difficult of times. Though we may be experiencing hard times, we rejoice that our names are enrolled in heaven (Lk. 10:20). Though we grow old and see loved ones die, we are exuberant over our hope (Rom. 12:12). Furthermore, we are cheerful for the opportunity to suffer for Jesus Christ (Acts 5:41; I Pet. 4:13). Like cut glass compared to a true diamond, one cannot even compare earthly joy to that which is eternal. Cut glass may appear beautiful for a moment, but soon it will get scratched, break and discolor. On the other hand, a diamond continues to sparkle just as brightly today as it did when it was discovered centuries ago. The saint’s joy is an everlasting jewel (Matt. 13:44).  

  Paul wrote in the previous verse about being a “yokefellow.” Our elation is often not for our own well-being but for the joy of our brethren (Phil. 2:4). We are joyful at the opportunity of being with the church (I Cor. 16:17; Phil. 2:28). We rejoice when we hear of brethren who are rejoicing (Rom. 12:15), as well as when we learn of the steadfast faith of others (II Cor. 7:16).

  In this same verse, for emphasis, Paul tells us twice to “rejoice,” and he wrote this as a prisoner in Rome. Such contentment baffles the mind of non-believers. They do not understand the joy of emptying self and fully relying on the Creator and sustainer of life. They fail to comprehend the power and security in seeing the unseen (Heb. 11:1) and knowing that regardless of what happens in this earthly life, we will be victorious through Jesus Christ (I Cor. 15:57). Paul refused to feel sorry for himself in his current situation. Rather, he said