 “Joy is found in the presence of God.” —Author unknown Isn’t that the truth? Sadly, I get my joy stolen easily. The early church found a joy that was unspeakable. Paul wrote from prison, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice” What? From prison? How do we keep this kind of joy? A joy that is not dependent on our surroundings. A joy that is not affected by circumstances. A joy that is inexplicable and genuine. This joy is found only in the presence of God. “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” —Psalm 51:12 David, after being confronted with his sin, recognized that true joy is found only in the presence of God.
Early Christians were filled with joy because Jesus gave them hope and life. Should we be any different? Take a look inside your heart. Is there joy? Ask God to renew, strengthen, and deepen joy in your heart in a way that is beyond understanding and beyond circumstances. Find joy in the presence of God. ^PJ |