Joy Unspeakable

JOY UNSPEAKABLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Peter 1:8-9

Key Verse: “Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.” — 1 Peter 1:8

Supporting Texts: Psalm 16:11, John 15:11, Nehemiah 8:10, Habakkuk 3:17-18, Romans 15:13

INTRODUCTION

Joy is one of the most powerful expressions of the Christian life. It is not a mere emotion but a spiritual force that springs from knowing God and trusting His promises. The world may offer moments of happiness based on outward situations, but the joy that comes from God is constant, deep, and unshakable.

The Apostle Peter describes this divine joy as “unspeakable and full of glory.” It is beyond human explanation because it flows from the indwelling presence of Christ and the assurance of eternal life. Even in trials, this joy strengthens the believer to keep pressing on with faith and hope.

When a believer walks closely with the Lord, this joy becomes a mark of divine presence. It sustains us in sorrow, strengthens us in weakness, and keeps us focused on the eternal reward. The joy of the Lord is indeed our strength, and it radiates through every area of life when we abide in Him.

1. THE SOURCE OF JOY UNSPEAKABLE

True joy is not man-made; it flows from God Himself through the presence of the Holy Spirit.

a) Joy comes from the presence of God (Psalm 16:11):

In God’s presence, there is fullness of joy. The closer we walk with Him, the more His joy fills our hearts.

b) Joy springs from salvation (Isaiah 12:3):

Redemption brings rejoicing because it delivers us from sin and death. Every true believer has a reason to rejoice in the Lord.

c) Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22):

When the Spirit dwells within us, He produces joy that is not dependent on external conditions.

d) Joy is strengthened by faith (Romans 15:13):

Faith in God’s promises fills our hearts with joy and peace even in uncertain situations.

Biblical Example: Paul and Silas, while imprisoned, sang hymns and rejoiced in the Lord despite their chains (Acts 16:25,26). Their joy invited divine intervention that broke every prison door.

2. THE CHARACTERISTICS OF JOY UNSPEAKABLE

Joy unspeakable is divine in nature; it cannot be fully described by words.

a) It is steadfast in trials (Habakkuk 3:17-18):

Even when everything fails, this joy remains because it is anchored in God, not in circumstances.

b) It is full of glory (1 Peter 1:8):

It reflects the nature and beauty of God within us, radiating hope and peace.

c) It strengthens the believer (Nehemiah 8:10):

The joy of the Lord empowers us to overcome discouragement, fear, and weakness.

d) It testifies of divine presence (John 15:11):

Jesus said He gives His joy so that our joy may be full. It is a signature of intimacy with Him.

Biblical Example: Hannah rejoiced after praying even before she conceived (1 Samuel 1:18). Her joy was based on faith in God’s promise, not on visible results.

3. OBSTACLES TO EXPERIENCING JOY UNSPEAKABLE

There are spiritual hindrances that rob believers of the joy of the Lord.

a) Sin and disobedience (Psalm 51:12):

Sin breaks fellowship with God and drains spiritual joy, as seen in David’s cry for restoration.

b) Worry and anxiety (Philippians 4:6-7):

When fear replaces faith, joy diminishes. Trusting God restores peace and gladness.

c) Negative company (Psalm 1:1-3):

Associating with mockers or unbelieving influences can steal spiritual joy.

d) Forgetfulness of God’s goodness (Deuteronomy 8:11-14):

When believers forget how faithful God has been, joy is replaced with ingratitude.

Biblical Example: The prodigal son lost his joy when he departed from the father’s house, but restoration came when he returned (Luke 15:11-24).

4. HOW TO MAINTAIN JOY UNSPEAKABLE

Sustaining divine joy requires consistent fellowship with God and deliberate focus on His promises.

a) Abide in the Word (John 15:7-11):

God’s Word nourishes our soul and fills us with the assurance that produces lasting joy.

b) Live a life of thanksgiving (1 Thessalonians 5:18):

Gratitude keeps the heart fresh with joy, even when life seems difficult.

c) Stay filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18-19):

Continuous communion with the Spirit keeps the believer’s heart overflowing with joy.

d) Keep your eyes on eternity (Romans 8:18):

Joy is sustained when we focus on the glory to come rather than the troubles of the present.

Biblical Example: Jesus endured the cross because of the joy that was set before Him,  the joy of redeeming mankind (Hebrews 12:2).

CONCLUSION

Joy unspeakable is not a fleeting feeling; it is a spiritual reality rooted in Christ. No matter what comes your way, God’s joy can sustain and strengthen you. The world cannot give it, and the world cannot take it away.