Let me ask, who in our life defines the word joy? I mean they just live it out. I have a few family members and friends that immediately come to mind. But what I’ve discovered is that joy is so much different than happiness. Joy is a constant. It’s a quality, not simply an emotion, grounded in and derived from God which characterizes a Christian’s life lived (Galatians 5:22) as it anticipates our eternal home with Jesus (Jude 1:24-25). I’ve also discovered that, as a Christ-follower, joy becomes more meaningful, enhanced and enlightened by life’s trials. James 1:2-3 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” Through all of life’s trials, may the joy of the LORD be our strength-so be still and choose joy. Will we?
Liz Curtis Higgs says, “Being joyful is a decision of the will, not an expression of my emotions.” As Romans 12:12 says, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” Happiness resembles an emotional roller coaster whereas joy is a constant steady never-wavering ride no matter what life brings our way. Why? Because the joy of the LORD is our strength. God is with us through it all. We are not alone. And that knowledge causes us to be joyful rather than joyless when we sure could be. It’s the ability to exhibit ‘great joy’ in life’s ‘great difficulties’ which is why Jesus came into our world as Luke 2:10-11 states, “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born for you; he is Christ the Lord.”
Let me ask, what has us joyless at the moment? What needs to be entrusted to God in order for us to be joyful? May you and yours truly experience the ‘Joy of Jesus’ this Christmas season. See you this Sunday, December 1 at 9:30 and 11:15 a.m. as we dig deeper into the topic of ‘JOY: Christmas Defined.’ As the hymn states, “Joy to the world! The Lord is come…”
God bless friends. May God’s JOY be your strength!
– Pastor Doug
