“REJOICE in the Lord alway," says the Scripture—not merely when it is fair sailing, but in stormy weather also. The apostle was in a dungeon when he said, "Rejoice in the Lord alway, and again, I say, rejoice." His surroundings did not conduce to joy, but his joy was in the Lord. We remember how he, with Silas, sang praises to God when in the inner prison at Philippi; and, when the beloved saints of that city were going through their trials for Christ's sake, the apostle sent to them, from his chains in Rome, the cheering exhortation, "Rejoice in the Lord alway."
Christians, generally, might be a little more joyful in the Lord than they usually are. There is some room for it, surely! Then says the apostle, "The Lord is at hand "—that is, close by, to care for, to protect His people. It is a great thing, in the presence of enemies, to be under the guardianship of the mighty One. There would be deeper repose of heart if we did more truly believe in His presence for us.
Now, rejoicing in the Lord alway, and knowing Him at our right hand, what shall be our demeanor towards others? Moderation—gentleness—yieldingness, Let your moderation be known unto all men—most practical result I and one due to the Lord filling our hearts with joy, and covering us with His protection.