A scripture that I has perplexed me for nearly twenty-five years is James 1:2: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of our faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
In fact, the truth is I have wrestled with understanding that trials can have benefits, and perfect my character so I will not be lacking in anything.
No, I have never really wanted to admit, until more recently, that my character needed a little honing.
Nor have I ever understood that “The Joy of the Lord is my strength”. (Nehemiah 8:10)
John 15:10-11 gives me a little more insight: “If you keep my commandments you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, ‘that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full’.”
Obedience, instead of being burdensome, is associated with joy, according to Jesus. It just clicked in my head. The fifth commandment admonishes children to obey their parents and it will go well for them. Likewise, if we obey our Heavenly Father, it goes well with us, and that will bring us joy.
Joy is a choice, not a feeling. Feelings lie, joy is not like happiness which is only fleeting and based on circumstances. Most circumstances I have no control over. Joy is a choice I have the ability to choose. Today I choose for the Joy of the Lord to be my strength.
“Man cannot live without joy; therefore when he is deprived of true spiritual joys it is necessary that he become addicted to carnal pleasures.” Thomas Aquinas
Image from sjbrown58.wordpress.com
Wow Marilyn…thank you for this. What a great post. Joy is one of the fruits of the spirit. May you reap a plentiful harvest of it.
Thank you Marilyn!
This is exactly what I needed to hear today–thank you SO much for sharing it. I’m glad I found your blog!