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  FINALLY, MY BRETHREN, REJOICE IN THE LORD
  by A.B. Simpson
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Summary: Through faith in the cross and the power of praise, we can
overcome depression and maintain a positive outlook.

Topics: "Rejoicing in the Lord", "The Power of Praise"
Scripture References: Psalm 34:1, Psalm 100:4, Isaiah 61:3, Romans 6:11, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 5:2, Philippians 4:4, 1 Thessalonians 5:16, Hebrews 13:15, James 1:2-3

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DESCRIPTION
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A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord and the
futility of dwelling in depression. He encourages believers to focus on
the cross, where they can find cleansing and a new identity in Christ,
allowing them to rise above their past faults. By laying down their
burdens and embracing their standing in Jesus, they can transform
painful experiences into lessons of victory. Simpson highlights that
praise is a powerful sacrifice that pleases God and should be offered
continually, as it brings light to even the darkest moments. Ultimately,
he calls for a life of constant rejoicing, reminding us that a single
moment of negativity can overshadow our joy.

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CONTENT
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There is no spiritual value in depression. One bright and thankful look
at the cross is worth a thousand morbid, self-condemning reflections.
The longer you look at the evil the more it defiles and mesmerizes you
into its own likeness. Lay it down at the cross, accept the cleansing
blood, reckon yourself dead to the thing that was wrong, then rise up
and count yourself as if you were another man or woman. Identifying
yourself with the Lord Jesus, you may then accept your standing in Him
and look in your Father's face as blameless as Jesus. Then out of your
every fault will come some lesson of watchfulness or some secret of
victory that will enable you some day to thank Him, even for your e
painful experiences.

But praise is a sacrifice for it is acceptable to God.

It ascends to heaven sweeter than the songs angels, a sweet smelling
savour (Ephesians 5:2) to your Lord. It should be the sacrifice of
praise to God continually (Hebrews 13:15). One drop of poison will make
the whole cup a cup of death, one moment of gloom will defile a whole
day of sunshine. Let us rejoice evermore (1 Thessalonians 5:16).

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/ab-simpson/finally-my-brethren-rejoice-in-the-lord/
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