Rejoicing Through the Journey | June 12th, 2026

Philippians 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

1 Peter 1:3-9
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved  in heaven for you, 5 who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of  glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.

Paul's repeated command throughout Philippians is clear: rejoice in the Lord. Not in circumstances, not in feelings, but in the Lord Himself. Jesus never changes, never has a bad day, and is always in control. Our joy isn't dependent on our situation but on our Savior. Even on the cloudiest days, keep your eyes on the sliver of blue sky, knowing the whole sky will soon be clear. You've been justified—saved from sin's penalty. You're being sanctified—saved from sin's power. You will be glorified—saved from sin's presence forever. This is your story. This is your hope. Whatever you're facing today, you have reason to rejoice. Jesus is with you in the valley and waiting for you at the finish line. Press on with joy, knowing He who began a good work in you will complete it.