Joy

A Note From the Pastor…

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,” (James 1:2). The Greek word for joy means “an awareness of God’s grace and favor; delight.” Peter writes in the New Testament, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed,” (I Peter 4:13-14). In the Old Testament book of Psalms, David writes, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore,” (Psalm 16:11). Clearly, joy can be chosen and experienced continually – no matter the situation.

Yet, we often seem to struggle as we strive to experience this true joy. Sometimes, we look at the “creation more than the Creator,” and we focus on the “gifts” more than the Giver of all our gifts. Barney Warren, an old Church of God minister and song writer, penned the words to the song, “There is Joy in the Lord.” The second verse reads, “I will live for the Savior, I am His evermore; I am resting in His favor, I am safe and secure; For the light shining brighter on my path every day, Cheers my happy soul with rapture as I walk in the way.” The chorus then breaks into the familiar words, “There is joy in the Lord, there is joy in the Lord, Hallelujah, glory, glory! There is joy in the Lord.” Simply, my joy is not dependent upon my circumstances – but it is dependent upon my relationship with my Lord and His blessing to me of Himself!

 True joy, and therefore true happiness, must be rooted in the service, gifts, and ways of the Lord! The distractions, discouragements, and doubts of this life are robbing of us of our joy! Matthew Henry writes in part, “Our happiness is bound up in God’s Divine favour; and if we have that, we have enough.” Amen! May our eyes turn upon Him and may our greatest joy be in the Lord!

         Pastor Chris