“Rejoice and be glad.”
But, Lord…
“Rejoice and be glad, I say.”

It’s hard to get out of this rut, Father.
“Rejoice with trembling.” (Psalm 2:11 ESV)

I forget who I am; and I’m not sure I can do this.
“Serve the LORD with fear; and rejoice with trembling.” (Psalm 2:11 ESV)

Everything seems so out of control.
“The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice.” (Psalm 97:1 ESV)

It’s some bad stuff we’re seeing, here, God…
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (Romans 12:12 ESV)

No rest for the weary? No break from the task, Lord?
“Rejoice always.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 ESV)
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4 ESV)

Okay, Father, I get it. I rejoice in you.

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4 ESV )