Always rejoicing ...?

God's word says in II Corinthians 6:10 -- "Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing"

I find that hard to do - to always rejoice - in bad times as well as good.

We endure the pain
the agony of every trial.
Are we calm and quiet
still before the Lord, our God,
without fear
of what the outcome may be?

Are we thankful
for the blessings God has given ...
to what is good?

Are we forever patient
and kind
and gentle?

Are we faithful to God alone,
trusting in His will,
obedient to His instruction?

Do we see what is true - and right - and just?

"...Whatever things are true,
whatever things are noble,
whatever things are just,
whatever things are lovely,
whatever things are of good report,
if there is any virtue
and if there is anything praiseworthy -
meditate on these things." - Philippians 4:8 

(c) March 20, 2017