In the English language, we tend to
use the terms “joy” and “happiness” interchangeably. However to the Christian, there is a grand distinction. Happiness is a delightful state but it is
a feeling that shifts like the blowing winds. Joy, on the other hand, is less of a feeling than it is a
state of being. Joy is a down-deep
hope in the goodness and beauty of God.
Joy is rooted in the belief that we serve the God who proclaimed to
Jeremiah, “For I know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper you and not to
harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11)”. Unlike happiness, joy is not a
transient emotional state. Rather,
it is a lens by which we view our lives and the world around us. True joy is anchored by the character of
God and trust in His promises.
True joy produces gratitude and thanksgiving.
Because joy is not dependent on our
life circumstances, it is possible to have joy in spite of incredible sorrow
and pain. A dear friend of mine recently experienced a miscarriage. The loss was shocking and her heart is
broken into a thousand pieces. She
is experiencing great sorrow but I have witnessed her joy in the midst of this
terrible trial. This is true
joy. It transcends circumstances
like sorrow and grief and it is powerful.
Joy buoys the soul from sinking when the waves of tragedy and despair
come crashing in. This is the joy
that leads the believer to worship through pain. This is the joy that enables a believer to have gratitude
during loss.
This is what Paul is talking about
in Romans 5:3-5, when he says there is joy in suffering- that the trials of
this life produce endurance. And this endurance develops character and,
ultimately, gives us a hope that does not disappoint. This lasting, beautiful, powerful hope is why there is joy
even in the midst of suffering.
Dear Father, Please be my hope. Renew my joy and help me to trust your
plan for my life. Help me to shift
the focus off my circumstances, so I can worship and magnify you. Teach me how to cultivate gratitude and
thankfulness in my life, that I may bring you glory. Amen.
Posts
