A safeguard

"Finally, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is not troublesome to me, and for you, it is a safeguard. Beware…beware…beware…" Philippians 3:1-2

     When least expected and most needed, God often restores our spiritual joy in adverse circumstances. Such is the case today.

     Imagine the astonishment of the struggling church in Philippi, to have a Roman prisoner urge them to be joyful in their faith. It should have been the other way around, with the church encouraging the prisoner during his time of intense physical suffering.

     Yet the imprisoned apostle Paul had learned a life-sustaining lesson, and was determined to offer his hard-earned knowledge and experience as a safeguard to his beloved friends. People of faith can rejoice even when outward circumstances are dire, dismal and overwhelmingly negative and dangerous.

     Imprint his great lesson deep within your souls. Whatever your circumstances, rejoice in God, however you understand the Divine. This is your greatest strength, as certain as the sunrise. Joy is essential for spiritual survival and power.

     Beware of those who seek to steal away or diminish your joy. Be aware that there are many people in this world whose bad character and evil motives carry a deadly intent to harm, weaken and wound your spirit. If they can rob you of joy, you will be demoralized and easy prey for their shrewd, numerous and determined agendas.

     Have past or present circumstances discouraged and diverted your joy into despair and disillusionment? If so, then you need today's safeguard. Rejoice in God whether you feel like it or not. Cultivate an attitude of inner praise when surrounded with negativity. Sing whenever possible, for that can uplift your spirits more than anything else can. Seek affirming spiritual community. Whenever possible, worship with others. Meditate daily on inspiring, life-giving sacred words.

     Make spiritual joy your priority today. Insist on it. Trust God for help, for joy makes a huge difference in how you live your life. Consider following the apostle Paul's example, and place your faith specifically in Jesus Christ, who offers seekers a deep heartfelt joy that the world cannot take away.

     Prayer: Joy Giving God, help me rejoice in You in all circumstances, at all times, whether I feel like it or not. May my joy in You forever be my strength, in good times and in bad. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
November 4, 2002
Permission is given to freely distribute this reflection throughout Zimbabwe.