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The Lord is Near
When we hit a difficult patch, rejoicing is probably the last thing we'd consider in our minds. And yet, that is the one thing the Word of God tells us to do; not just in good times but also in tough ones. Writing from prison, Paul urged the Philippians to keep rejoicing in the Lord. And in case they forgot that too quickly, Paul promptly added, "And again I say, rejoice!" (Phil 4:4)
But how can I rejoice in the face of troubles and challenges? How can I rejoice when no one seems to care? How can I rejoice when I am left all alone to handle everything? Very good questions. Let's learn more from Paul in Phil 4:4-7.
Presence: If you are like me, I am prone to getting all flustered and edgy when put under undue pressure. But knowing that God is with me is a great source of comfort. God says He will never leave nor forsake us and that is a promise we can stand on! Phil 4:5 says, "Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near." God is nearer to us than we think. Often, we get distracted and we drift from Him that's why He seems far away. The first thing to do is to get back into relationship with God and into His presence for that is where we will find fullness of joy (Ps 16:11). That is why Paul didn't say just to rejoice, but to rejoice IN THE LORD.
Prayer: Being in God's presence and experiencing His joy takes our eyes off the problem and onto God who is bigger than any problem. That's why Phil 4:6 says we have no need to be anxious about anything. Instead, the invitation is open for us to bring every request and petition to God. Our heavenly Father wants us to run into His arms as little children who trust Him completely to make things right. The key is to come to Him with thankful hearts and not with complaining and griping ones! Regardless the situation, God is still in full control and that is reason enough to always be thankful and to rejoice.
Peace: When we are rightly positioned rightly before God, we are also positioned to receive His peace. Strangely, the fears and anxieties do not appear as oppressive as they previously did although the situation may still be the same. It totally defies human logic! That's why Paul called it a peace that "surpasses all understanding." Interestingly, the root meaning of "worry" has in it a picture of something that has been cut into many pieces. What began as one issue becomes shattered into many issues! No wonder we are stressed! On the other hand, God's shalom peace is a restoration of anything that is broken. God's peace puts things back together again in proper context and perspective.
Perspective: Notice that nothing is said about the issue going away at all. It is still there! But as we rejoice in God and approach Him with thanksgiving, God's peace guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus and the right perspective to the matter is restored. This translates into the protection of our emotions and intellect so wise and sound decisions can be made. Even if nothing can be done in the meantime, God's peace keeps us in good stead until He brings the desired breakthrough in His time and in His way!
Whatever you may be going through at the moment, know that God is in control even if you aren't. Determine to stay close to Him and to see things from His point of view. As you pray, begin to thank Him in that situation and even thank Him for how He will take you through. His peace will restore every broken-ness and remove every confusion in your heart and mind. Remember that whatever life deals you, nothing is too big or too difficult for God. Not only can you have the peace of God, you also have the God of peace with you! Indeed, the Lord is near! Shalom!
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