Assurance of Rejoicing

To the average Christian, it is not always feasible to rejoice in all things. Indeed, things could be very disappointing and even frustrating. How can we rejoice in all things as Paul has taught us (Philippians 4:4)? Indeed, Paul further opines in I Thessalonians 5:16-18 that we should rejoice always, pray constantly and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for us. Those who have followed Paul's advice would find that rejoicing is a great weapon for us to fight our way through obstacles and mishaps. Proverb 17:22 resonates that a cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones.

I know some of our enthusiastic brothers and sisters might be disappointed at the outcome of our effort to win lost souls to Christ through various kinds of evangelism. Nevertheless, it is definitely not the end of the road to fulfill our Christian destiny. We should rather learn from our experience to foster a keener sense of the purpose and destiny of our lives, to promote discipleship through Biblical education, to ensure mutual understanding and solidarity among us through honest dialogue in the face of conflict in a healthy manner—not just how to "smile and get along" but how to disagree with grace.

If we can stick ourselves to the principle of rejoicing, determination and perseverance in our pursuit, and encourage one another with the promises of our Lord, I am sure God will open another door for our pursuit when the time is ripe. In between, it is a preparation for our future destiny with a joyful heart, a ceaseless hope and a constant prayer seeking God's guidance and blessings. May God the Father and the Lord Jesus help us! Amen.