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Rejoicing in the Lord
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us may not be able to forget our words. How important it is that we
speak only those things that will give spiritual strength and life!
Angels are listening to hear what kind of report we are giving to
the world about our heavenly Master. Let our thoughts and words
be of Him who stands before His Father. When we take the hand of
a friend, let praise to God be on our lips and in our hearts. This will
turn our friend’s thoughts to Jesus.
Everyone has trials, sorrows, and temptations. We must not tell
our troubles to people, but take everything to God in prayer. We
should make it a rule never to speak a word of doubt. We can do
much to brighten the lives of others. Our words of hope and holy
cheer will make them stronger.
Satan is tempting many brave people to do wrong. They are
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almost ready to faint in the battle with self and the powers of evil.
We should not make it harder for such people. We may cheer them
with brave, hopeful words that will help them along the way. Thus
Christ’s light shines from us. “We do not live for ourselves only.”
Romans 14:7
. We may be helping others by our words and acts
without knowing it. Or we may be causing people to lose hope and
to turn away from Christ and the truth.
Many people have a wrong idea of the life and character of
Christ. They do not think that He was friendly and happy. They
think He was cold, severe, and without joy. They let this idea of
Christ darken their lives.
It is often said that Jesus shed tears but never smiled. Our Saviour
was indeed a Man of sorrows. He knew what sadness was, for He
opened His heart to all the sorrows of the people. His life was
shadowed with pain and cares, but His spirit was never broken. His
face wore a look of peace and joy. Happiness flowed from His heart.
Wherever He went He brought rest and peace, joy and gladness.
Our Saviour was deeply thoughtful but never gloomy. The lives
of those who follow Him will be like His. Christ’s followers know
they have a great work to do for Him. They will not be foolish,
rough, and loud. They will not repeat coarse jokes. The faith of
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Jesus will give them a peace that will flow like a river. His peace
will make the light of joy shine. It will bring true happiness, cheer,
and smiles. Christ did not come to be waited on. He came to help
people. When His love is in our heart, we will follow His example.