Joyful in Praise ~ March 4th 2022 (RHAPSODY OF REALITIES EP. 538)

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES FRIDAY 04 MARCH 2022 PASTOR CHRIS TOPIC: JOYFUL IN PRAISE KEY VERSE: And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed (Acts 16:25-26). MESSAGE In the sixteenth chapter of the book of Acts, Luke tells us an inspiring story of how Paul and Silas were incarcerated; persecuted for preaching the Gospel. They were put into the inner prison, in chains; their feet were fastened in stocks. But something happened as they began to sing joyfully: there was an earthquake to bring them out of prison. Many times, all we do is make requests in prayer. But there’s power in praising the Lord joyfully. The Bible says “Rejoice evermore” (1 Thessalonians 5:16). There’ll always be circumstances and situations that’ll try to get your attention and knock your joy off. Sometimes, it may be some wave of bad news to make you sad and angry or some issues on your mind. Whatever the case, refuse to worry; be joyful in praise to the Lord. The Bible says, “Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully” (1 Peter 5:7 AMPC). And then He says, “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 through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV). Someone might say, “I only get anxious when the issues get very serious.” No, Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled. Ye believe in God, believe also in me” (John 14:1). Yes! Nothing should ever trouble you. That’s why it’s important to meditate on the Word of God. Through meditation on the Word, you’re conditioned to have the right mindset; you can’t but be joyfu