I recently read an article by a very wise man who is a member of Faithwriters that said 'joy is not the absence of sorrow, but the presence of God.' How true that is! Even in our sorrows, when we turn to God for comfort, He always gives us comfort. His peace, even in times of sorrow, can fill us with joy. Joy of being in the very presence of a loving God. The same God who created the entire universe also cares for and comforts me! Wow.....
Jesus, while talking to his disciples just before the crucifixion said this in John 15: 11-13 “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”
He tells them (and us) plainly one very important way to stay joyful; love one another as He loved us. It is a well known fact the best way to get your mind off your own troubles is to focus on and help other people. Giving of ourselves is the recipe for a joyful, fulfilled life. When we do that, the peace of God that passes all understanding dwells in our hearts and minds. And it’s all because of Jesus - the author of love, joy and peace.
My Grandparent’s generation knew this….but I think this generation has missed the mark. This is the generation of “me.” It’s all about me. When everyone’s focus is on themselves, there is no peace, there is no joy. Only when we give of ourselves will we find the peaceful joy we all long for.
Most people don’t know how to love one another as Jesus commanded because they don’t have His love abiding in them. Everyone needs to know and experience this great love of God. He is the definition of true love. If you are missing out on a joyful life, you are missing one of the greatest purposes God has for you: that His joy might remain in you and that your joy be full.
Please don’t miss the joy He has for you. Be His arms to comfort the weary. Be His lips to soothe the burdened. Be His hands to dry the tears of the broken-hearted. And watch your joy grow full. There’s just nothing better in this life than the joy of the Lord.
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