We are exhorted in this Scripture to “rejoice in the Lord” for our safeguard, as an instrument of protection from unintended consequences which would result, if not adhered to. A decision to praise the Lord is one which aligns us with God’s will for our lives, and not to do so, alienates us from being in the center of His Will. But how does one do so when assailed to look upon the unjust and ungodly circumstances that daily come across our paths, such as the slaying and mistreatment of innocent people all over the world, some just for being Christians? Through faith and obedience to God’s Word; knowing that He is just and the Defender of those who place their trust in Him. Verses 2 + 3 + 18 – 19: say, “Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the false circumcision; for we are the true circumcision, who worship in the Spirit of God and Glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh. For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you weeping, that they are enemies of the Cross of Christ, whose appetite and whose glory is their shame, who set their minds on earthly things.”
Verse 20 + 14: tell us, “For our citizenship is in Heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. “And Ephesians 2: 18 – 22: says, “For through Him (Jesus) we both have our access in one Spirit to the Father (God). So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, having built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the Corner Stone, in whom the whole building being fitted together is growing into a Holy Temple in the Lord; in whom also we are being built together into a Dwelling of God in the Spirit.”
Hebrews 12: 1 – 3 + 28 – 29: says, “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of faith, Who for the joy set before Him endured the Cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right Hand of the Throne of God. For consider Him Who endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart. Therefore, since we receive a Kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming Fire.”
Hebrews 3: 13: “But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called “today,” lest any one of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we have become partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our assurance until the end.” 1 Thessalonians 5: 16 – 18: says, “Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in all things give thanks; for this is God’s will concerning you in Christ Jesus.”
Dearest Holy Lord Jesus: thank You for your Overcoming and Keeping Power. Come by Your Holy Spirit, and strengthen us to live according to Your Word for our lives. Come and bring much comfort to the families of those who have lost loves ones especially to those who are slain for their faith in Jesus. Give us all Calvary forgiveness within our heart, so that we may release it to those who may never accept Your gift of Salvation. Enable us all to keep our eyes fixed on You, that we may continually offer You praise, of which You alone are worthy to receive forever. Glory to You alone!
