JOY, JOY, JOY

 

June 21, 2024

John 15:11

“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”

 

 

“The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit, says Romans 14:17. Our loving Creator is the one who throws a massive party for the prodigal returned home (Luke 15:11-32). He’s the God of the angels who rejoices over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10). He’s the God who celebrates with us, sings over us, and rejoices in us (Zephaniah 3:17). And at the end of the age he will throw a wedding feast in celebration of the joy he has over us, his bride (Revelation 19:6-9).

Here is the amazing message of Scripture, God doesn’t desire to keep his joy to himself, but longs to fill us with it to overflowing. Toward the end of the John 15:1-17 Jesus says, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11). God’s plan is to fill us with the fullness of joy that is grounded solely in him rather than the ever-changing circumstances around us. That’s why Galatians 5:22 tells us that, “The fruit of the Spirit is . . . joy.” 

So how do we experience the joy of God? How can the joy that Jesus spoke about in John 15:11 be our experience? Philippians 4:4: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” Finding joy begins with valuing our heavenly Father above all. When God is our focus, joy naturally follows.

Understanding that leaning on God as the source of our contentment, rather than on human opinion or worldly success, provides a steadfast foundation for joy. On the other hand, if our emotions fluctuate with the world's tides, our joy will be short-lived. So let's Anchor ourself in God and rejoice in the Lord always, for He is eternally worthy of celebration.

Secondly, to experience the fullness of joy God has for us we must also trust in his plans. You know the words of  Psalm 118:24  “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” We need always to remember that each day of our life was created by God and that truth alone helps us to rejoice. Rejoicing comes from trusting that our God is loving and powerful and that his purposes are always for our good. 

As we close our week of devotions, let us plan this weekend to focus on spending time in God’s presence and experiencing his joy. May we let the Holy Spirit produce the fruit of joy in our life. 

 Where are you not experiencing joy? 

What do you think is stealing your joy in those areas? 

Ask the Spirit to lead you into the fullness of joy in your life. 

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24