LASTING JOY
Proverbs 23:4-5 – Don’t weary yourself trying to get rich. Why waste your time? For riches can disappear as though they had the wings of a bird! (TLB)
Money, family, affection, fame, business, properties and achievement, among other things, can bring happiness, but they cannot produce enduring joy. Indeed, while earthly accomplishments are good, going by our Bible reading, they can perish! The story of Sarah in Genesis 18; 21:1-7 indicates what joy could mean because the 90-year-old who had long passed her menopause laughed when God gave her a son. Nevertheless, this is not a lasting feeling because what we term as joy could be momentary happiness, which is a product of our emotions.
On the other hand, joy is an attitude of the heart because regardless of the state of things, there is an excitement that flows within — inner peace and hope (Colossians 1:27). Romans 15:13 says:
‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.’ (ESV)
What this translates to is that the Holy Spirit is the custodian of joy, and the hope of the righteous brings gladness (Proverbs 10:28). For example, according to Galatians 5:22-23, joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit. In other words, there is no way we would be in a cordial relationship with God and lack His joy. We also experience the joy of hope when we receive answers to prayers and what God has promised. Therefore, to maintain true joy, we must rejoice in the heavenly blessings and give glory to God always for His love, mercy and grace! (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).
Beloved, do you desire divine joy? If yes! Be saved or rededicate your life (Psalms 51:12) and live by the Spirit (Romans 8:1-28). Above all, when situations arise, pray and activate your faith because God is committed to restoring you to His perpetual joy (John 14:27).
PRAYER
Hymn: I Must Tell Jesus — Elisha A. Hoffman (1893)
1. Talk to God on those issues!
(MIDNIGHT PRAYER)
1. Alone with God — listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and be led.
THE HOLY GHOST NIGHT IS ON FRIDAY!
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