"REJOICING IN CHRIST JESUS" well describes the contented and spiritual Christian. He rejoices over sins forgiven and his name written in heaven. This joy is a fruit of the Spirit. It is the gift of faith. It comes with hope: "Rejoicing in hope." It is the soldier rejoicing in his conquering captain; the mariner rejoicing in his wise and trusty pilot; the prodigal rejoicing in his kind and loving father; the penitent rejoicing in his pardoning and gracious God. This joy is unspeakable and full of glory. It is always holy joy, and is easily dampened and weakened by sin. Christian, thy God bids thee rejoice. The Lord's people of old were exceeding joyful in all their tribulations. A solid foundation is laid for thy joy in God's holy word, in his gracious covenant, in the fulness of Jesus, and in the glorious perfections of God. Our joy is often shaken by our uncertainty about our calling and election; by our unbelief, which insults God while it injures us; by low views of Christ, by a hasty spirit, by worldly entanglement, by an uneven walk with God, by selfishness in our Christian walk. Believer, the Lord commands you to rejoice evermore.

For Meditation:
Rejoice - the Lord is King!
Your Lord and King adore!
Rejoice, give thanks, and sing
And triumph evermore;
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!