“But let all those that put their trust in You rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because You defend them: let them also that love Your name be joyful in You.” (Psalm 5:11)
Do you have trouble with those that speak of joy as though life was one big party? Or have you been one to bear the sour looks of those who think there’s no room for joy in such a war-torn, stress-filled, turbulent- tossed society? Or, have you received looks of scorn when you continually know what it means to believe and expect JOY to bubble up within whenever you need it. Let’s look again at the word and be blessed by who we are in Christ.
If you are one that says, “I put my trust in You (Lord) therefore I can always give a shout of joy, or you can say ‘YES” God has become my sure defense, He is my legal aid.” “He is my ever present help in times of trouble”. (Psalm 46:1) Or perhaps your heart turns to Him in simple adoration just to say you love the name of Jesus. If you can or if you do, then JOY is yours for the asking.
JOY is the imperturbable assurance that regardless of circumstances, situations, trauma or storms of life God is with us as Sovereign Lord of all. But there’s more to be understood. As circumstances, situations, trauma or storms of life continue, man needs something ‘other-worldly’ to strengthen and encourage his heart. The JOY of the Lord is given for that very reason. “For the JOY of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10) It was a great man of God who was called the minister with the laughing face, Andrew Alexander Bonar, who said, “Love is the motive for working, joy is the strength for working.”
Hear again the truth in the song, “JOY to the earth the Lord has come.” Emmanuel—God with us—I heard recently that the Planned Parenthood organization has their own greeting card with the words “choice on earth.” Their kind of choice does not bring life or peace, but Emmanuel brings a JOY-filled life that strengthens and upholds. “God with us” does bring us a choice. Choose Him to trust, to be your defense and to love His name; it will release the strength of everlasting JOY.
Diane Hale for the past 30 years has served as evangelist, trainer, teacher, mentor, and consultant for churches of many denominations.
http://dianehale.net/
January’s theme is Rooted in Christ’s Joy
Reading God’s Story Schedule today, 1/16/13: Genesis 34-37.
Join hosts Page and Cindy on Facebook where we are discussing today’s reading. PLEASE NOTE: We are no longer using the You Version Group to discuss the daily readings. Page and Cindy found an easier way by setting up a Facebook Group. Everyone is invited to join by going to https://www.facebook.com/groups/316067615171001/ and clicking the ‘Join Group’ button. As of 1/10/13 we have 400+ women reading and discussing Scripture together! Join us and invite your friends too!
