Chairō!

There are not many positive stories on the news these days. If you’re Nigerian, you can probably relate more, as the dismal nature of things has moved from being abstract figures and values reeled out by newscasters, to a palpable pinch and bite in our pockets. Money isn’t “moneying,” fuel isn’t “fueling,” and it certainly doesn’t seem like hope is renewing either.

On a more serious note, it’s super easy to slide into despondency or give in to constant negative thinking, and consequently, negative speaking. And as how we think and speak surely shape the quality of our lives, negative thinking and speaking isn’t what we should be indulging in. It’s certainly not God’s will for us.

What should we then be doing?

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

(Philippians 4:4, KJV)

If there was one person that “went through it,” it was Apostle Paul. He had every reason to be bitter about life. But God’s counsel through him to the people of Philippi was to rejoice in God always and over again.

Maintaining a heart of rejoicing can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re really in the thick of it. Paul gives us a tip on how to achieve this.

Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. And the peace of God that passes all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 4:6-7, NET)

Instead of worrying and bickering about something you have no immediate power to change, why not, with a heart of thanksgiving, approach God with these things that trouble you?

When we do this, God says that a peace that we ourselves cannot understand, will find expression in our hearts. Without the weight of anxiety on our hearts, it would be relatively easy for your heart to keep rejoicing. Rejoicing and rejoicing again in God’s ability to come through for you because He has always done so. Always rejoicing in the Lord!

So what are those possible sources of worry and anxiety, friend? Bills? Injustice? Uncertainty and insecurity? Worrying about them will achieve nothing. Instead, bring these worries before God with a heart of thanksgiving, trusting Him to do His thing. And with a reassured heart, continue to rejoice in the God of your salvation!