Be joyful always
Pray continually
Give thanks in all circumstances
for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus -
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Joy – Now that is an interesting word. Here are a few definitions and synonyms:
“the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying”;
I like that word: Chuffed!
So, since I “take” after my father who certainly enjoyed life but tended to be on the quiet side and at times a tad melancholy this directive to be "joyful always" seemed a bit much. However, “with God nothing is impossible”! I opened my Bible and found multiple verses containing joy, joyful, rejoice etc. Pretty encouraging!
These three verses really stood out.
1 Peter 1:8
Though you have not seen him, you love him;
and even though you do not see him now,
you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,
Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace
as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2:28 (Psalm 16:11)
“You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.'
Joy is the result of knowing Jesus! And look at the description in 1 Peter – inexpressible and glorious!
Joy is ours when we are in His Presence! Joy is ours as we trust in God!
Joy is the result of overflowing with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit!
Lord, I receive this joy gladly!
Lord, I decide to dwell in God and His riches in Christ Jesus.
Lord, let me show a difference in my outlook, my words and my face . . . always! After all, "with God all things are possible"!
See how all three verses in 1 Thessalonians tie together? But I am getting ahead of myself . . .next blog . . .
PRAY continually!
