Generally, non – believers have the misconception that the life of a Christian is mundane and too restrictive to fulfill one's need to be joyful. Nothing can be further from the truth. In Phil. 4:4 Paul exhorts the Philippians to “ Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
He further assures us in (vv 6-7), “ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation by prayer and petition, with thanks, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
He further encourages us to indulge in almost anything in (vv 8-9), “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.”
What non-believers have to grapple with is, they neither have the peace of God nor the love of Jesus.
As Christians it is easier to make “excellent and praiseworthy” choices in whatever we do – choices that emanate from a heart fully committed to Jesus. Paul states in Phil. 1:9-10, that when our love is filled with knowledge and wisdom, we are able to understand what is best, so that we may “approve the things that are excellent”.
Excellent choices are the proof of a life that is deeply committed to Jesus and His ways and they have the ripple effect of filling our lives “with the fruits of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ – to the glory and praise of God” (Phil.1:10-11) and a rejoicing relationship with Him.
As Christians we are entitled to enjoy an abundant and joyful life.
Paul Nathan
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