Montrose, Colorado

Rev. Willis A. (Bert) Jones, a country preacher

January 25, 2014

When it seems like I am tired, and somewhat troubled, should I rejoice, when things seem wrong? The Apostle Paul said in his letter to the church at Philippi that we should rejoice and not worry about anything. Read for yourself:

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - (Philippians 4:4-7 NIV)

These comments of Paul follow his teaching about a need among fellow believers. There was a whole lot of auguring and not much rejoicing going on among the members of the church. So Paul tells them to relax and turn the problems over to God the Father and His Son Jesus the Christ. After all they all agreed on what was important, their faith in Christ their Savior. Now look at the next few verses:

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me--put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." -- Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)

Here he is advising that we thing on negative thoughts. By extension, we are not to talk about the things that are bad, only think (or talk) about what is god and honorable. This will bring real peace to our lives.