Rejoice in God
We should rejoice in God's goodness and love, and respond to His presence in our lives with joy and gratitude.
Mary Wilder Tileston, through the words of George Herbert and William Bernard Ullathorne, emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the goodness of the Lord. She encourages believers to seek and understand God's love, which illuminates the path to Him. Tileston reminds the congregation to find joy in the truth and light that God graciously bestows upon His children, surpassing any earthly pleasures. By recognizing the divine presence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in their lives, believers are called to rejoice always and bask in the overflowing goodness of God.
Text
Serve the Lord with gladness. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations.
PSALMS 100:2,5
TEACH me Thy love to know;
That this new light which now I see,
May both the work and workman show
Then by a sunbeam I will climb to Thee.
GEORGE HERBERT
WHY should we not rejoice in the good things of God? If the day is pure and serene, we enjoy its gladness. Why should we not rejoice in the serene light of truth that shines from Heaven upon us? We find a joy in the presence and cheerful greeting of our friends. Why should we not look up to Heaven, whence so many pure and most loving faces look upon us with divine affection, and with most tender desires to cheer and help us? Having an almighty and most loving Father, in whom we live, and move, and have our being, let us rejoice in Him. Having a most loving Saviour, who has made Himself our brother, and feeds us with His life, we ought surely to rejoice in Him. Having the Holy Spirit of God with us, making us His temples, and pouring His love into our hearts, we ought certainly to answer His love, and rejoice in His overflowing goodness. "Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say, Rejoice."
WILLIAM BERNARD ULLATHORNE
Sermon Outline
- Introduction
- The reasons to rejoice in God
- The call to rejoice in God
- The command to rejoice
- The importance of answering God's love
- The guidance of the Holy Spirit
Key Quotes
“Serve the Lord with gladness.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
“Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again I say, Rejoice.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
Application Points
- Recognize and appreciate the presence of God in your life, and respond to His love with joy and gratitude.
- Let the Holy Spirit guide you and pour His love into your heart, making it possible for you to rejoice in God's goodness.
- Experience joy and happiness in your relationship with God, and celebrate His love and mercy in your life.