Word of the Week - JOY
May the God of hope fill you with all Joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
Joy is something that I think we all desire more of but at times it can be difficult for us to possess. Even though it is similar to the concept of happiness, Joy is much deeper because it is an attitude and condition of our soul. Happiness tends to be more short term and based upon circumstances and driven by our feelings, whereas Joy is more foundational and based upon a deeper inner condition that can withstand the waves of feelings and circumstances that we all face in our day to day lives. It is pretty amazing how both James and Paul talk about the power of Joy at work in our lives and how it can produce within us an inner fortitude that can supply us the strength to live in victory no matter what circumstances we are facing. “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance” James 1:2-3. James is reminding us of a key concept as it relates to Joy, if we trust God and know that He is using us for His plans, then we understand that there is purpose in the pain and we can find the Joy of the process of being sanctified in Christ Jesus. This gives us hope, peace and strength, which are all foundational to having Joy. Jesus our savior modeled this for us as He was sacrificing His life for us on the cross. “So we fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the Joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2. Most importantly I think we need to realize and remember that Joy is a choice. We receive Joy by choosing to abide in Christ through His word and truth, which give us deep security in our eternal destiny. If you truly believe God’s truth then you cannot help but be overjoyed because it is so amazing and Joyous what God has done for us.So rejoice, rejoice the Lord is near and He is with us and for us. I pray that “The Joy of the Lord will be our strength” Nehemiah 8:10Have a great and Joy filled week…-Duane