Spring Training: Rejoice

     Joy comes in the morning, and we are to rejoice continually!  Not always easy.  I am finding that it can be easy to fall in to condemnation of myself.  God forgives us when we repent.  It is that simple.  Accepting it, and not beating yourself up for being so stupid can be another matter!  (Maybe I am just preaching to the choir here!).  I think, "I am a mature Christian!  How could I do that? What was I thinking- how could I let my feelings take me there?"  (There flares that pride again!  lol)
     Did you remember that you are human, prone to failure?  Yeah, we have the Spirit of God living inside of us, but you probably won't get it every time.  Hold on, I am not being a negative nancy here!  When this happens take a breath and step back into sync with God.  It may not seem easy, but it is.  Take off the hair shirt you put on and wipe the ashes off your face- they do nothing for your complexion!  Put on the garment of praise.  Go to the throne of grace, cause you need it!  Put on some worship music and rejoice, soak in His presence.
     The definition of rejoice is: 1 to be glad; take delight in, 2 to make joyful; gladden.  When you rejoice you are taking delight in who God is, with a thankful heart.  How awesome is He, even when we screw up?!  It is so much easier to go through my day being thankful for who God is than focusing on each step and trying not to make a mistake, thinking about everything I shouldn't do.  You may not be where you want to be, but you are on your way! 
     I think that rejoicing is a vital part of "remaining in Him".  I mentioned John 15 in my last post, and I just have to quote more!

"You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.  Remain in me, as I also remain in you.  No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine.  Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." v. 3-4

     Do not disconnect!  Rest in His grace, accept His mercy.  Rejoice in that.  The fruit is coming!