Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation. 

Today’s devotion was written by Jessica Gerth.

"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4 NLT)

Just before the hour was up, the counselor focused on how I was sitting - perched on the edge of her couch, nervously picking my nails. My leg bounced mindlessly in synchronization with my racing heart. "Have you heard the term 'hypervigilance' before?" she asked. 

Worried. Fearful. Withdrawn.

Constantly on high alert, consistently anticipating the worst, my joy was overshadowed by spiraling negative thoughts. I hadn't realized how deeply the painful experiences of my past were influencing my thoughts and behaviors. 

Today's verse tells us to "Always be full of joy…" That seems like a tall order. Yet, Paul writes these words from a prison cell after he'd been whipped, stoned, persecuted, and shipwrecked.

In his brief letter to the Philippians, Paul used the words "joy" and "rejoice" sixteen times. How could this man be joyful in the Lord after all he'd been through? 

Paul recognized joy as a spiritual need and not a physical one. His joy wasn't anchored in his circumstances but in his Savior, who never let him down and filled him with sweeter and more lasting gladness than anything this world offers. 

In Acts Chapter 16, Paul and Silas sang hymns of praise and prayed to God, which was unusual behavior considering they had been thrown into prison.

But our rejoicing gets God's attention. Chains were broken, and prison doors were opened. Rejoicing releases the power of joy already inside of us. 

Paul's life and writing overflow with joy, reminding me that God's grace is

sufficient even during my most challenging trials. My anxiety is not a sin but a signal that it's time to pray and to praise. 

"I say it again - rejoice!". I love how Paul repeats himself for added emphasis.

Take a moment today to rejoice in the Lord and allow Him to put a new song in our hearts. As the old Sunday school song goes, "I've got the joy, joy, joy down in my heart!" and nothing can drown out the love of Jesus.

Thank you for joining us today. If you would like to learn more about OHSOFREE Ministries, please visit us at www.ohsofreeministries.com.