The thing that hinders our rejoicing is not trouble, but being half and half. If in the world the Christian’s conscience reproaches him, if he meets spiritual Christians he is unhappy there; in fact, he is happy nowhere.
Ours ought not to be a religion of regrets, but a rejoicing of heart continually.
“Rejoice evermore; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks” (1 Thess. 5:16-18). There is closer connection between these three, than our souls are wont to acknowledge. Joy will ever rise in proportion to prayer and thanksgiving.