Rejoice always…
1 Thessalonians 5:16 NIV
Rejoice Always
In 2024, the Abacus polling people asked Canadians what brings them joy. The most popular response was “spending time with family and friends,” with over 54% saying it brings them a great deal of happiness. It’s clear that, despite political differences, Canadians value their personal relationships. Being outdoors in nature also scored highly, with 39% of Canadians finding great joy in natural surroundings, which might explain why parks and outdoor spaces remain so beloved across the country. Music, hobbies, and pets were other frequent sources of joy.
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Every one of us who grew up in a Christian home remembered using John 11:35 when asked to give the shortest verse in the Bible – “Jesus wept.” There is another two-word verse that we should all know too – 1 Thessalonians 5:16 says, “Rejoice always…” That’s it. A two-word command. I’m glad Paul just used two words. It’s important to note what he doesn’t say. Paul doesn’t say, “Rejoice when life is easy,” or “Rejoice when the report is good.” He says, “Rejoice always.” This kind of joy is not rooted in circumstances; it is rooted in Christ. It’s the settled assurance that no matter what today holds, Jesus holds us. Joy is not a denial of pain. It’s a declaration of trust. It says, “Lord, I don’t understand everything, but I know You are good.” There will be days when tears come easier than smiles. There will be seasons when prayers feel heavy. Yet even then, there is a deep current of joy beneath the surface — the joy of salvation, the joy of forgiveness, the joy of belonging to Him. So, rejoice always.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley