I took this picture on a recent visit to Rome.  This is the Mamertine Prison located adjacent to the Roman Forum.  It is believed that both Paul and Peter were imprisoned here.  Compared to the hustle and bustle of Rome, this was a quiet and humbling spot to visit.

As we walked down the narrow stone stairway into the prison itself, I became speechless.  It is hard to find words to describe the experience.  The fact that anyone could be imprisoned in this environment and survive is stunning – but what is even more impressive are the words that the Apostle Paul wrote while being imprisoned for his Faith:

Rejoice in the Lord always [delight, gladden yourselves in Him]; again I say, Rejoice! (Philippians 4:4 AMP)

The fact that Paul could find it in him to Rejoice, even when in a prison like this, should simply inspire us to do the same.  I think it is safe to assume that none of us have experienced some of the trials and tribulations that Paul did.  I know that I have personally never been shipwrecked, tortured, stoned like he was.  But yet, we can get so caught up in our problems that we forget to stop and rejoice.  Notice, Paul said it twice – Rejoice and again Rejoice.  If anything is mentioned twice (in the same sentence mind you) I think it is worth heeding attention too.

I have said it more then once, we are not promised an easy life – and Paul telling us to rejoice is not meaning we ignore our troubles like some feeling-less robot, numb to the world.  Even Jesus showed deep emotion, weeping for Lazarus – but we must keep our eyes focused on Him.

When you read a bit further into Philippians, Paul goes on to tell us:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds thought Christ Jesus.  (Philippians 4:6-7)

I have gone through trials.  I have been anxious.  I have been stressed.  This week alone I have experienced personal trials and disappointments that could easily cause me to retreat and fall into a cloud of self pity – but that is not an option for me.  The Word tells me above, to paraphrase in my own translation, give all your troubles, your issues, your sadness, your disappointments to God – and peace that doesn’t make any sense will overcome you.

In Francis Chan’s book, Crazy Love, he sums it up quite well:

When I am consumed by my problems – stressed out about my life, my family, my job – I actually convey the belief that I think the circumstances are more important than God’s command to always rejoice.  In other words, that I have a “right” to disobey God because of the magnitude of my responsibilities.  Worry implies that we don’t trust that God is big enough, powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what’s happening in our lives.

There have been things that I have been standing in faith for for many years now that have still not come to pass.  Circumstances that are beyond my control.  But I know that I serve a God who is big enough to provide.  Do I know how?  No.  But, I know His Word promises it.  I know that when I come to Him with thanksgiving and prayer – He will hear me.

No matter where things stand in my life, I know that there is truly no better option then to Rejoice.

Question: Do you find sometimes it is easier to retreat in self-pity than it is to Rejoice through the trials?