Joy

  • July 8th, 2010 | Johnny Bragg | No Comments |

    Whenever we speak of joy, especially in churches, it is often by those who are naturally sanguine, upbeat, even comedic. And while it is good to have a laugh in church, it remains that few walk in daily joy. I have spoken with many Christians who struggle with depression, anxiety, and loneliness. This should not be. Christians should be the liveliest, happiest, most joyful people on Earth. We should bubble with life, regardless of how we are naturally wired. Regardless of situation or circumstance.

    I believe part of the issue is Biblical joy is rarely taught. Joy in the church is having a laugh, which I love, but nothing more than that. Once the punch line and giggle has passed, we are left right where we started. Moreover, the enemy works against our joy, to rob and steal what little we have.

    Let me share with you 5 encouragements on joy.

    1. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit. As a believer, you should be growing love, peace, patience…and joy. As you mature in the Lord, more and more fruit should come out of your life. The beautiful thing about fruit is that trees and vines produce it for others, not for themselves. Our fruit of the Spirit is the same. When you have deep, everlasting joy, others are the ones who get to enjoy it. They will enjoy being around both you and the Spirit that lives within you.

    2. Jesus is joy. Remember what the angels said to the shepherds on that winter night so long ago? “Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” Luke 2:10. When Jesus comes, his joy comes as well. When you invited him into your life, you invited the joy of the Lord into your life. As you grow in Jesus, his presence of joy will continue to multiply.

    3. The joy of the Lord is your strength. We all need strength, something to anchor to in difficult times. When the trials of this life come, we need to be able to have the strength to stand. And that is where joy comes in. Joy allows you stand when your flesh wants to fall, to hold on when others say let go.

    4. The Kingdom of God is about joy. If we were to each make a list of what makes up the Kingdom of God, what the very fabric is made of, few of us would list joy. Yet Paul wrote, “The kingdom of God is not about eating and drinking, but about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Romans 14:17. Joy in the Holy Spirit is the Kingdom of God. When we live in a local church body, joy should be surrounding us. In our meetings, in our private study, and in our fellowship.

    5. Joy is found in relationship with others. I love our church body, getting to see friends and family each Sunday and Wednesday. Week in and week out, someone does something that makes me laugh. It’s a joy to be in this local body, to be a part of other’s lives. My joy grows just by being with other believers.

    Joy is not easy, but it is worth pursuing. Regardless of what you are dealing with, I encourage you today to go in the joy of the Lord. Look to Him as your joy. Be thankful for all you have.

    And lastly, find something to laugh at. You may start by looking in the mirror. Hey-o!


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