Philippians 4:4-13 New International Version (NIV)
Final Exhortations
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 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. 9 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.
Thanks for Their Gifts
10 I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
REJOiCE ~
If we could only see what we think about in life matters. Do you see the glass half full or half empty? Being positive is such a great thing to live by and helps others too. Sure there are times when things get hard for each of us. But the good definitely outweighs the bad or hard in life. I remember my mom was mostly negative in life. When I heard her say something positive, it shocked me. That kind of personality has been through lots of life. I can see now that at 5 years old her mother died and her was passed around to family members. She never really had her own bedroom or things that belong to her. She searched for love and feelings of being wanted in life. Some people never feel wanted and yet they are wanted by others. I wanted my mom's love and friendship. I searched for something that didn't happen. Her time was spent in doubt, worry and fear of what might happen. Instead of living in the peace of God, freedom of thoughts and no fear. I am only trying to show you that I cared about her and did my best to make her happy. Yet, I was never quite good enough for her until the last day she was alive. She spoke words to me that I waited all my life to hear.
So what did I share this? I want you live and not let negative things hold you back. I want you to rejoice and allow God the freedom to mold you. Because a person of faith and encouragement to others. Be a person that looks into the mirror and see's the strong inside of you. God is able to handle anything we face, so lets face today rejoicing! Praising God for all things and growing from them. Purpose this a good day. My prayers are with you, your family and friends.
~ Sparkie