Deep Joy

Thursday, August 1

Deep Joy

These things I have said to you that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. John 15:11

Whatever happens to us as God’s children, whether it’s wonderfully good or hardship and pain, it can be mixed with deep joy that can never be taken away, so in everything we can learn to praise the Lord.

Last year I had a surgery, which has left me confined to one place, unable to do very much, and while my body was not at its best my heart remained grateful having established my faith in God. It was during these quiet moments I experienced deep joy. A kind of joy that does not come from things, but one that is rooted in knowing God. God strengthened me and held me when I was weak, and because of this I was able to praise God in this situation. He has provided many special people to meet each of my needs. There’s an inner comfort in knowing my spirit is being lifted up in prayer.  For when I was weak, through prayer I was made strong. I’m also aware of the amazing way that the human body heals itself naturally when broken, all part of God’s design. There is the deep sense of knowing that God sees, knows and has prepared the way ahead, plus a deep joy of knowing that our precious Savior is with me, His Holy Spirit renewing me on the inside every day – ‘His mercies are new every morning’ (Lamentations 3:23).

I came across this description of the believers joy, it says ‘In no other religion and in no other literature is joy so conspicuous as in Christianity and in the Bible. Physically and psychologically speaking, it is the criterion of health whereby all the powers and affections are enriched and harmonized. So in religion it denotes the satisfaction of the soul, attaining its desire; and Christianity stands firm so long as men who have it are invested with joy’. (by Rev. C.H.Wright, D.D.)

But one could just sit and bemoan any situation, sinking into a well of self pity. Oh, may we get a glimpse of the things that He has prepared for us, things that we can’t even dream of or imagine. May we know the sweetness of each moment with Him and whether we find just one thing or a thousand to praise Him in, let’s just do it, for He inhabits the praises of His people. May we come to experience an all knowing, all good, and loving Father – and we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

Always remember, the harder it is to offer praise – the greater the sacrifice becomes. (Hebrews 13:15). ‘But to you who fear my name the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings’ (Malachi 4:2).

Prayer for today: Lord, thank You for being my strength when I was weak. Thank You for holding me together on the days when life felt as if it were pulling me apart. May my life continue to be a testament to Your goodness, drawing others to You. Fill us with Your joy, and let it overflow to those around us, that they may see and experience Your love. Amen.