The Joy Of The Lord Is Our Strength

The Bible urges us to be joyful when suffering persecution for being a Christian because it identifies us with Jesus (Luke 6:22-23; 1 Peter 4:13). Every trial is an opportunity for joy because it furthers our daily progressive sanctification (James 1:2; 1 Peter 1:8). The Bible not only exhorts us to find joy in suffering, but it also says that God will give joy at the end of difficulty as a foretaste of our final redemption (Psalm 30:5,11,12; 51:8; 53:6; 85:6; 126:5,6; Isa 35:1,2,10).

The joy and gladness of the Lord is our strength, refuge, and protection in times of affliction (Neh 8:10-12; Psalm 28:7). This parallels Jesus, who with joy "endured the cross, scorning its shame" (Heb 12:2). Also, for every Born-Again Christian, trials and persecution are occasions for joy (James 1:2 NIV).

Peter and John found their beating with whips was an opportunity for "rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name" (Acts 5:41). Paul speaks of his joy in affliction (2 Cor 7:4-16). It is a part of faith (Phil 1:25). Suffering brings joy as every Born-Again Christian is united with Jesus in His suffering (1 Peter 4:13-14).

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DAILY JOY

1. It is essential to take the time to get clear on what brings you life-giving joy.

2. Reflect at the end of a day or the end of the week when you experienced the most joy or when you felt most alive.

3. Take some time to reflect on your life. What seasons, memories, or elements of your life brought you the most joy?

4. Consider how your beliefs may provide hope for the future and be a source of anticipated joy.

5. Spark joy in other people. Be intentional about how you can encourage others to grow in their strengths. When you see your spouse, children, co-worker, or friend light up and or do something well, affirm them for that.

6. Encourage others to do things with and for other people. Set an example for your children of spending energy and time not just with others but for others.

7. Pursue joy, especially in stressful times. Joy can be a great resource if you allow deep positive emotions and the convictions about what matters to energize and direct you.

[Adapted from the article “What Is Joy and What Does it Say About Us, by Dr. Pamela King, Psychology Today 7/28/20]

CONCLUSION

QUOTE – "What is our life without joy? Without joy, we can do nothing: we are like an instrument out of tune. Without joy, we are like bones out of joint. We can do nothing well without joy and a good conscience, which is the ground of joy." (Richard Sibbes)

QUOTE – "Lightning and light may suitably illustrate the difference between the joy of the sinner and the saint. The one is like lightning - short, hurried, transient, scorching; the other is like light - lasting, healthful, beautiful, and healing." (Unknown)

Joy is the appropriate response of the Born-Again Christian to the "good tidings of great joy" which the Gospel is made of (Luke 2:10). Joy is the state that results from knowing and serving God and is exemplified daily in a transformed life and a person's character. Church ministry must be offered where people can be committed to find their identity in Jesus (personal) with others (through activities) and with themselves (where they can grow).