Philippians 4:4-5

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

(v4, NIV)

I remember singing a song with these words in it. It definitely is a blessing to be rejoicing in the Lord. We should do it always, as Paul instructs. If we are not rejoicing, we may be doing something that is sinful instead. I find it hard to imagine someone who is both rejoicing in the Lord and sinning at the same time. Paul even repeats himself, showing how excited he is about rejoicing in the Lord.

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

(v5, NIV)

The ESV uses the word "reasonableness" instead of "gentleness". This characteristic must be in you. In addition, it must be so apparent in you and the way you live that it is known to everyone. This doesn't mean you go around telling everyone about it. We are not boasters of the flesh, but boasters of God. Regardless, if I just told you how honest I was, you may or may not believe me. I could be lying. However, the way I live and the way I act may begin to support the specific characteristic in me. Live it out in such a way that it is apparent, not for others to see so that you can boast, but that the characteristic itself may truly be of you. We do things for God to see, seeking his approval and not the approval of men.