For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5 (NKJV)
What is Joy
Joy is something different than happiness. Happiness is dependent on outer stimulus.
Joy comes from the LORD. It is a byproduct of being with Jesus, of working with Him.
At the time of Christ’s birth the sky filled with angels who spoke to the shepherds. The angelic host told them, “And the angel said to them ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For unto is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:9-11,ESV)
The word Joy appears in the New Testament at least 18 times.
Curtis Zachary in his book, Finding Soul Rest 1, points out that joy is a byproduct of something else. God answers our prayers, and we feel joy. We receive a special present and we feel joy.
What brings you joy?
The things that bring me joy are as follows:
* Seeing the sunshine through my living room window in the mornings.
* Getting a good night’s sleep.
* Seeing a rainbow after a summer shower.
* Receiving a phone call from a friend.
* Being greeted with a smile at church. We must always thank Him for giving us joy.
* Receiving long prayed for answers to prayer.
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1. Finding Soul Rest by Curtis Zachary, Kirkdale Press, Bellingham, Washington © 2010.Page 88.
Joy is a deep seated state of heart and spirit. It can only truly come from the peace that God gives us. I do find "joy" in the beauty around me, unexpected pleasures like you mentioned, etc., but again, that is temporary joy. Long lasting joy comes only from that peace that passes all understanding that is from God alone.
ReplyDeletePam: I thank you for your thoughts. I thank you for pointing out that lasting joy comes from the peace that God gives us. Peace and blessings to you and yours.
DeleteWhen we know Jesus, we know the joy only He can bring to our lives, Cecelia. Happiness is fleeting, but true joy never fades.
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Martha Jane: You are so right. Thank you for your thoughts.
DeleteSitting in His presence brings me joy. He is such a good God.
ReplyDeleteCindy: Thank you for dropping in. Yes, sitting in His presence brings joy to His children. God teaches me so very much when I sit and listen to Him, Peace and blessings to you and yours.
DeleteGreat that you posted that David Phelps video with your post Cecelia, His music gives me a lot of joy!
ReplyDeleteMarja: Thank you for the wonderful encouragement. Just so you know, we live one town south of where the Gaithers live. Peace and blessings to you and yours.
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