Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! (Philippians 4:4, New International Version)
…give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18, New International Version)
Theme: Rejoicing and Thanksgiving
Context:
The Covid-19 pandemic dominated world events for the last 3 years and featured extensively in our 40 Days of Discipline journey during those years. Rejoicing and thanksgiving may not have been dominant activities during the worst of the pandemic, but now with the hope of a return to normalcy, these activities may feel a bit more appropriate. This highlights an interesting issue for Christians though, because the biblical prescription for the relationship between rejoicing/thanksgiving and our circumstances doesn’t align with the world’s view.
Bible Study Passage:
The Scripture passages we will consider for our study over the next three days are provided above. From the Apostle Paul’s perspective, there is no doubt about the importance of rejoicing and thanksgiving. Please spend some time reflecting on the passages and respond to the question below.
Question:
The Bible has numerous references to rejoicing and thanksgiving. How would you define these terms from a biblical perspective?
Please share your thoughts.
February 22, 2023 at 6:12 am
Rejoicing for me is experiencing joy and happiness in all circumstances. Knowing God loves me and is good all the time encourages me to rejoice. Thanksgiving means having an attitude of gratitude. Being grateful for God’s grace, love and provision, to name a few.
February 22, 2023 at 10:19 am
From a spiritual perspective rejoicing is having joy knowing that God is always with us, guiding us loving us, no matter what.
Thanksgiving is giving thanks in all situations, good & bad, knowing that God is in control, that His love, grace, strength & mercy is always there. That all things work for good to those who love Him. This also means faith in His promises.
February 22, 2023 at 11:22 am
I think the bible wants us regardless of how we’re feeling to put into action the actions that could bring the feelings of joy, happiness.. thanksgiving is the opportunity we have to repent, and express our gratitude for all Christ has done for us..
February 22, 2023 at 12:59 pm
For rejoicing: “celebrating” despite your circumstance, knowing that GOD IS.
For Thanksgiving: being grateful for any and everything, in faith, knowing that God has our best interest in mind.
February 22, 2023 at 2:16 pm
I think these 2 are so related. God asks us to give him thanks not because He really needs it but that it helps us to reframe our thoughts. The more we give thanks, the more we realize we have so much to be grateful for, even the air that we breath and the lungs that we breath them with are because of his provision and grace. When we look at life this way, we are able to rejoice despite outward circumstances.
February 23, 2023 at 9:56 pm
I love this.
February 22, 2023 at 8:34 pm
These definitions are really helpful, and I believe they get to the heart of many of the issues we will discuss over the next few weeks. For example, the issues of joy, not being led by circumstances, knowing who God is, and the relatedness of the terms. Thanks for these contributions!
February 23, 2023 at 12:24 pm
rejoicing- offering praise, a physical display of an emotion and thanksgiving is acknowledging our source is God and taking time to let Him (and others) know our gratitude.
February 23, 2023 at 9:51 pm
All good.