SUFFICIENT REASONS FOR GLADNESS

Psalm 40:16 says, " Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified."

Gladness is rarely or never equivalent to mirth, merriment, gaiety and triumph, and it usually expresses less than delight. It sometimes expresses great joy.

Many Christians have the appearance of gloom rather than gladness.

Who are those who are to be glad in the Lord? First, those that seek him(Psm.40:16a).To seek God in the Bible indicates asking for his direction, favor and assistance. Secondly, those who are saturated with Him-"as love thy salvation"(Psm.40:16b) Thirdly, those who speak of Him- "the LORD be magnified (Psm.40:16c).

What are sufficient grounds for our gladness?

I.                Sins Are Remissed (Acts 10:43).

Those who savingly believe have remission of sins. It is not a belief that consists of an agreement to a list of facts, but it is a submission to Jesus as Lord and Savior.

II.            Substitute Has Been Provided (Romans 5:8).

The Bible clearly says in that verse that Christ died "for" us. The word "for" is a word of substitution. To be a substitute is to be "put in a place or situation for someone else." Christ had no sins to die for but he died for ours.

III.       Separation Has Ended (Eph. 2:13).

We were "afar off" when it comes to Christ, but through the precious blood of our redeemer we are "made nigh." The word "nigh" in Eph. 2:13 comes from a root word that means "to squeeze." We were far from Christ but now he "squeezes" and embraces us, since we have become His children.

IV.           Safety Is Insured (See Rom. 8:38,39).

Nothing can sever or separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus.

V.               Satan Is Defeated (Col.2:15).

Christ has "spoiled" principalities and powers. The idea can be that of disarming the powers of Satan. Remind the devil from time to time that he is a defeated foe.

VI.           Shores Are Nearer (Rev.20).

Each day we live brings us one day closer to the day we will see our Lord, be reunited with saved loved ones gone on, and be relieved of all our problems and pressures. What would we do without the reality of heaven?

VII.      Satisfaction Is Enjoyed (Phil. 4:11).

Satisfaction is repose of mind or contentment with present possession and enjoyment. Sensual pleasure and selfish gratification will not satisfy the soul.