“Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.”~ Phil. 4:4
This statement came from one of Paul’s prison epistles. Having been beaten, he was thrust into the inner prison, the doors locked, his feet placed in stocks, and a guard with him around the clock. It was midnight; he was tired, and hurting. He was literally drained of all physical strength.
And just what is this old seasoned saint’s advice to Christians when one is imprisoned by such circumstances? When one is shut-in and shut-out from all human aid and resources? He gives us a double-barreled answer, “Rejoice…[and] again I say Rejoice.” He shows us that joy is not something going on round about us, but something going on inside of us.
This stalwart saint always found solace in the sovereignty of God. He believed his Maker was Lord of every circumstance. He was absolutely convinced that nothing could enter the circle of God’s perfect will for his life wherein he lived unless by Divine approval. He may not have been sure everything happening would work for good to those around him, he was 100% sure they would for him. This is also true of you, dear friend, you who…love God, and are called according to His purpose. What joy this should bring to our hearts!