The Difference-Maker

Some Christian denominations, as well as some other religions, teach that suffering and sadness are measures of spirituality or religiosity, but it’s supposed to be just the opposite. God doesn’t intend for religion to be grievous, and Jesus certainly didn’t make it that way.

I don’t see how people can be truly happy until they have their deepest needs met. Even if they have everything they could wish for materially, they need something to satisfy their spiritual hunger. Thank God, Jesus does that!

My religion makes me happy, and even my work makes me happy because I know it does people some good. When I’m sick or suffer loss or face other serious problems, I may not feel very happy for a while, but even that doesn’t destroy my overall happiness. My physical condition or present circumstance may leave a little something to be desired, but I can still be happy in spirit.

I have very little to be unhappy about. The only thing I can think of that I want is for other people to be as happy as I am. That’s the only real longing or need that I have—the desire to help others understand how much Jesus has to offer, so they can be happy too. That’s why I take every opportunity to urge others to open their hearts and lives to Him, because I know they will discover the same happiness I have found. If people see that I’m happy and they’re not, they wonder what makes that difference, and they want it for themselves. The difference, of course, is Jesus.

Having the joy of the Lord is part of our example as Christians, but that’s not the only reason we should pursue it; we also need it ourselves. “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” That joy is found in spending time with Jesus—“In Your presence is fullness of joy.” It’s found in taking in His Word—“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” And it’s found in putting the Word into practice—“If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.”

True, lasting contentment isn’t found in our possessions or circumstances, but in staying close to God and following His plan for our lives.

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Philippians 4:4 ESV- Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.

Psalm 16:11 ESV- You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Romans 14:17 ESV- For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.