As the window for daily freedoms narrows the comparison between Adam and Eve (who had every freedom with one prohibition – in the Garden of Eden) to the Apostle Paul (who had every prohibition with one freedom – in prison) comes to mind.
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While Paul had the worse situation than even today’s lockdown, he used his freedom to choose JOY. In prison! And from there he exhorted others to Rejoice in the Lord Always. Not to fix eyes on what is wrong, missing, lacking, uncertain—- but to rejoice In The Lord who is the same yesterday, today, and always. This allowed his character to mature into godliness and he finished well, leaving an enduring legacy of faith. In the crises he faced, he remained joyful, thankful, prayerful, dependent on Christ with eyes fixed on Him. .
For you and me, we will always have the choice to choose joy and Jesus. As a bonus: when the joy of the Lord overflows and you can’t help but give it away, it multiplies!
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“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
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Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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. Finally, brothers and sisters, 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 4:4, 6-9 NIV
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Lord, please help me to choose You and choose Joy! .
📷:Nomizu Cave, Pinterest
Slide: “Beyond Suffering: From Enduring to Enjoying” Praying Wife Forum
Reflection:
Am I closer to being like Adam and Eve or like Paul?
What steps will I take to improve?