Why We Must Rejoice Always

One Sabbath, during the sermon, I was deeply struck by a particular verse. Though I had read it countless times before, that day it felt entirely new.

I had always thought this verse simply meant that the goal of our faith is the salvation of our souls. But as I looked at it more closely, I realized it was also telling us that we—who have received salvation—rejoice with an inexpressible and glorious joy. The salvation God has given us is such a glorious grace that it cannot help but fill our heart with joy.

The Bible teaches that one of the virtues Christians are called to cultivate is to “rejoice always.” Once we were destined to die because of sin, but now the way to heaven has now been opened, and eternal life has been granted to us. What greater joy could there be? What greater reason for gratitude? Holding fast to the words, “Rejoice always,” I resolve to remember the grace of salvation in every moment and circumstance, filling my days with thanksgiving and praise to God.