The Joy In Knowing God
Today’s Verse:
Philippians 4:4 ESV
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.
Yesterday at the cancer center, I was asked about some of my favorite Bible verses. I thought it would be nice if we could walk through some of those bible verses that bring me joy and hope. Today, we begin with Philippians 4:4
Joy is not merely an emotion that comes and goes with our circumstances; it is a deep and abiding reality rooted in Christ. Saint Paul, writing from prison, urges the Philippians to rejoice in the Lord always. How can he say this, despite his suffering? Because true joy is not found in external comfort but in the unshakable promises of God.
As Lutherans, we understand that our joy is grounded in the Gospel. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered sin, death, and the devil. Even in trials, we have reason to rejoice because we are justified by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8, another of my favorites). Our joy is not dependent on our strength but on the assurance that we belong to Christ.
So today, whether in times of peace or struggle, let us remember that our joy is in the Lord. He is faithful, He is near, and He will sustain us.
Prayers
A Prayer for Today:
Gracious Lord, help me find joy in You, no matter my circumstances. Strengthen my faith so I may always trust in Your promises and rejoice in Your salvation. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Apostles’ Creed:
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer:
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Luther’s Morning Prayer:
I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.