DAILY READING
Joy Starts With Vigorous Praise
by Judy Webb
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)
When reading this scripture passage, it was fun to study the word: rejoice. Specifically, the joy part. While there is much more to this section, it is the word joy that caught my eye. I learned, while studying this verse:
Joy is something we cannot produce ourselves; it is a Fruit of the Spirit.
There is no power in a Christian life if he has no joy. The Devil attempts to take away our joy because it is the source of power.
No matter how dark the circumstances of life may be, it is always possible for the Christian to rejoice in the Lord. Christian joy can be persistent.
Worldly happiness depends on circumstances and can change without warning. When things are going well, you feel upbeat and happy. If not, the opposite feeling rules—creating an emotional roller coaster.
Biblical joy has to do with stability and celebration on the inside regardless of circumstances on the outside. We must choose to rejoice! (Psalm 30:11,15)
Our Joy depends on the presence of God with us. Not a continuous smile, but a satisfaction in what the Lord has done.
Vines Expository Bible notes teaches: joy is an attitude of the heart; joy is not a guarantee. Joy requires peace. Worry stints peace, so conquer worry and peace with joy will flow. How?
Refresh yourself with vigorous praise.
Each morning, I begin my journal entries with, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. (Psalm 150:6)
PRAYER
Thank you Father, for this gift of Joy. Open our eyes to all the Spiritual Gifts you have bestowed on us, Your children. Teach us to utilize and practice each of them, but especially JOY. Amen.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JUDY WEBB
I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.
Joy requires peace is a new thought but its true! When we have cast our cares on the Lord we can rest in him and know he's leading the way - and we can follow in JOY! Amen!