There are times when we just need to stop - moving, running, going, hustling, finagling, complaining, whining, moaning - and take stock in what we have. Take the time to consider all that is accomplished/achieved; all that the Lord has done.

There are also the times of good, prosperity, victory, success that we need to stop and ponder the One who made it possible...caused it to be...commanded its manifestation. Yes we studied, worked hard, worked out, sacrificed and obeyed. This was our expected, required part. The actual plan, and fruitfulness of it was from God.

Think not? What about the times we have our own plan and agenda, and we are grinding hard at it, seeing no results; maybe even loss. Without the Lord included, and positioned in headship position, our efforts are just that...efforts. There may be some advancement; but it will never be to the extent, and of the intensity and permanence God has intended for us, His children.

We are to rejoice always. We are to thank Him at all times - the good, the bad, and the in between.

~ The good - for His faithfulness to cause it to happen

~ The bad - for His faithfulness to turn the matter around for our 

   good

~ The in between - for His faithfulness to usher us through to His 

   "promised land"; and preparing and equipping us for the 

   increase and  promotion, while providing and protecting all along 

   the way

Rejoicing is a putting action to our faith in God and His faithfulness. It changes our position and outlook from self and/or situation to our good good God.

Rejoice through the pain for He is with you.

Rejoice through any uncertainty for His outcome is sure.

Rejoice through the pitfalls for He has a way of escape and deliverance.

As we do this - REJOICE - we will see things from a different perspective...a higher vantage point...through the eyes of God. Doors of opportunity shall open for us, while the ones of distraction and decoy close; and the snares exposed and tripped before we reach their placement.

Rejoice on the way up the mountain.

Rejoice when challenges cause a slipping.

Rejoice at reaching the top.

Rejoice in tears.

Rejoice in celebration.

It may at times seem hypocritical, or that your are perpetrating an emotional falsehood; but not so. You see, we can rejoice in whatever the matter, season or situation because we know the power of God's love for us; and are fully persuaded that what He has established, promised and revealed shall come to fruition. Our hope, faith and trust are in His ability, which cannot fail. 

How can we be so sure? How can we be fully persuaded as Abraham (who in his nineties, still had no children) remained so, as it had been revealed he would be the father of many nations?

We do so by getting to know God intimately - initially from His Word (the Bible). Ask the Lord to help you as you read. Ask Him what He would like to say/reveal/explain to you at that sitting. Also engage with Him in prayer conversations (speaking and listening). Start with these, adding the rest - praise, worship, fasting - as you proceed in Him.

Rejoice... Rejoice...Rejoice -  and again I say...(you know the rest)