“I have told you this so that you will be filled with My joy. Yes, your joy will overflow – John 15:11 (NLT)
We can attest to the fact that even the most mature of God’s people experience joylessness at times. For example, Job wished he had never been born (Job 3:11). Elijah, even after defeating four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal with fire called down from heaven (1st Kings 18:16-46), fled into the desert and asked God to take his life (1st Kings 19:1-4). David prayed to be taken away to a place where he would not have to deal with reality (Psalm 55:6-8).
The first thing we need to realise is that joy is a gift from God (Galatians 5:22). Joy is both a gift of God and a response to the gifts of God. Joy comes when we become aware of God’s grace and relish His favour.
One way to experience joy is to focus on God. Instead of dwelling on our difficulties or the things that rob us of our contentment, we should safely trust in God and not in our own understanding. This means that we simply tell Him our troubles and submit to Him, remembering who He is.
We can experience joy when we intentionally praise Him. David wrote that studying God’s Word can bring us joy (Psalm 19:7-8). We experience joy by communing with God through prayer and remaining steadfast in Him, i.e., keeping our focus on godly things.
Jesus gave some instructions regarding joy. In John 15, He talked about abiding in Him and obeying Him. He said, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love. If you keep My commands, you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” – John 15:9-11 (NIV).
As we focus on God’s presence and promises, our joy and strength will increase.
Read: Psalm 3:7-8; Philippians 4:4-8
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 135:13-21; 2 Peter 3; Daniel 4:19-37; Daniel 5:1-16