2022 01 12

Good morning.

Joy is much more than external things. It’s much more than that happy, giddy feeling that comes every once in a while. The joy that God speaks of in his Word is something we can count on.

The joy God offers means we no longer need to live in fear or worry, because God’s joy will always be available to us. Jesus says in John 16 that in this world we will have trouble, but we can take heart because He has overcome the world. Despite our circumstances we can receive joy. We are not dependent on anyone or anything other than God to know joy.

The sooner this reality is grasped, the sooner we will begin to live a more joyful life.

My (Mike) favourite Psalm sums up how we feel when we understand God's goodness.

"When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. (Psalm 126:1‭-‬3)

"This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life ..." (Deuteronomy 30:19) And may we add - choose joy.

Have a good day.

Blessings.

Mike and Daphne