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“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. John 15:11
When one thinks of the word joy, how is it defined? One may confuse happiness with joy but they are not the same. Happiness may be spending time with the one you love, a beautiful sunset, sandy beaches, shopping, your baby’s smile, or maybe just a delicious cheeseburger. Sometimes we chase happiness but these things are temporary. In these examples, happiness depends on our circumstances, our whereabouts.
Now let me introduce you to Joy. Joy is eternal, it is a supernatural peace and calm in the midst of any circumstance, any pain. It is a confident spirit and heart knowing that God is the pilot of our life. It is the assurance of His love and work in our life. It is strong and deep in our core, it is Jesus Christ. So, if you don’t have Jesus, you don’t have Joy. Happiness depends on happenings, Joy depends on Christ!
It was still dark outside as I made my way into the gym. I recently had accepted Christ and each day was seeking Him more. I stepped on the treadmill and began to walk as I accelerated speed. I began to pray. Lord, what is joy all about. I hear so many speak of joy. Lord, I want to know true joy. There has been so much pain. I want to feel joy. At that moment the greatest indescribable unworldly peace flowed over me. Tears began to drip, pour and collide with my sweat. I knew at that moment God was demonstrating His joy within me. It was something that could only come from Him. It was then that I truly knew what joy was. It was simply me abiding in Him and Him abiding in me (John 15) If you want true joy focus all your attention and energy in knowing Christ!
One of my favorite books in the Bible is Philippians. It is all about joy I have claimed it to my life numerous times. If you need a little joy, I encourage you to crack it open and learn how to rejoice in every circumstance. Don’t take my word for it. Hear from Paul the author himself who while writing this book was in prison but yet lived in joy!
From A Mother’s Heart: You have heard that a mother sets the mood of the home. It is true and if your spirit and attitude is one of joy it will be contagious and your children will rise up and call you blessed (Proverbs 31:28) A joyful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones (Proverbs 17:22) A joyful family starts with a joyful mother!
Pray this with me. Lord, make me a joyous mother, because of my salvation through your son, I have every reason to remain joyous and celebrate life. Let my life be a testimony of your joy, love and grace!
Jeannie