Joyfully
Today’s verses should encourage believers to always find joy in the Lord, no matter the circumstances. They should serve as a reminder that our joy is not dependent on outside situations but instead is rooted in our relationship with our Heavenly Father. By rejoicing in the Lord, we acknowledge His presence, goodness, and sovereignty in our lives. This joy is a deep, abiding sense of well-being that comes from knowing and trusting in God.
As I stood at my mother’s dying bedside, Jesus filled me with peace and love, for Jesus said, “It is time for her to come home with me.” She suffered much through her years with pain. As I said my goodbyes, I saw the peace of Jesus in her eyes and the smile on her face. No, it was not easy to let go of her even though I knew she was going to meet Jesus and all our relatives that have gone before her, going to a place of no more pain and sorrow but joy forever more. So, my heart became full of joy knowing she is at rest in my heavenly Fathers arms. As my father sat beside me in a wheelchair at mom's bedside that evening, Jesus’s presence was so great that He held us in the palm of His hand. My dad cried uncontrollably, but I knew Jesus would carry him through this time of grieving. I love both of them and miss them terribly, but I have a hope to see them again one sweet day.
Psalm 16:11
You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.
Nehemiah 8:10
…Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Philippians 4:4
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say, rejoice!