Monday the 25th

Philippians 4: ⁴Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ⁵Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

 

Rejoice in the Lord….let your gentleness be evident to all. The actual Greek word used for gentleness in the original test is epieikēs  meaning: appropriate, that is, (by implication) mild: - gentle, moderation, patient. The Bishops Bible from 1586 used the word patient, KJV uses the word moderation, all three of these words, gentleness, moderation, and patience,  encompass the same thought…..wait on the Lord. We are not out in the world forcing change, we are not out and about going over the top, taking everything to the extreme, we are not known to act in haste. We wait on the Lord, and we rejoice in the Lord. When I think of waiting on the Lord, I always think of a child at their own birthday party. That is how we tend to go about life sometimes, just like that child we do not take the time to see all that has been done on our behalf. We do not stop to rejoice in joy for all of the things God has provided…..we are more apt to be found pulling on God's robe saying "now? Can we open the presents now? I don't want to wait" there is nothing gentle, moderate, or patient about that!  We miss the effort put forth to prepare this party that we call life. The Lord has given us so much to be thankful for. First and foremost is the simple fact that we are all still drawing a breath as we read this. Yes, perhaps the greatest overlooked gift is life itself. Everyday we wake up, is another opportunity to give God thanks, and to rejoice in the Lord. It should be evident to all of those around us. The parry is happening all around us, we must remember to stop and take it all in. The gifts will come soon enough, but don't forget to give thanks for the party! The challenges we face, the victories we look so forward to the people who touch our lives, the lives that need our touch…..we will run them all over, if all we are trying to do is make it to the present table! Make it a point to spend your time rejoicing, not forcing, be known as gentle, not overpowering, let your patience be your calling card, and moderation be your signature. The Lord is near, the celebration is in full swing, and the crowd is awaiting your arrival. Spend your time rejoicing with those that are in attendance, take notice of  each streamer, each balloon, and every centerpiece. The Lord has worked hard to make every detail perfect for what you need right now. Don't miss the true gifts, as you head towards your next present table, the true gift, the true treasure is Christ in your heart. Let that be evident to all.

 

 

God Bless,

Brian Thetford

<((((><

 

www.thenewcovenantchurch.com

 

www.theworkweekwithchrist.blogspot.com