In Phil. 4:4, Paul says that we need to “Rejoice in the Lord always,” whereas in the Beatitudes, Jesus taught that “Blessed are those who mourn” (Matt. 5:4). How is this possible?

– Danny, India

PR. GEORGY’S RESPONSE:

These are not mutually exclusive states. Mourning is the condition and rejoicing is the result of a right relationship to God. It is those who humble themselves whom God lifts up (James 4:10). Those who mourn in their spirit will be able to rejoice in the Lord. True sorrow for sin is a precedent to the consequent joy of salvation in Jesus.