FINDING “IT”

Nehemiah said it was the source of true strength. The psalmist David found it in God’s presence and offered it back to Him as a love gift. Jeremiah found it in God’s Word. King Solomon said it was one of God’s rewards for right living. Jesus promised it to His followers and said it came through believing and doing what He said.

The apostle Paul named it as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, as well as one of the hallmarks of the kingdom of heaven within. And Paul should know; it sustained him through imprisonment, persecution, and numerous other perils. The apostle Peter said it couldn’t be put into words, but that it was “full of glory.”

“It” is “the joy of the Lord.”

And the good news is that the joy of the Lord is not reserved only for prophets, psalmists, kings, and apostles. Many millions of believers of all ages and down through the ages have thrilled to it and lived by it—and you can too. It’s free, and it can be yours starting right now with a simple prayer asking Jesus to fill you with the Holy Spirit’s “joy unspeakable.” Jesus has promised, “Ask, and it will be given to you. … If you know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” Then don’t be surprised if you’re happier than you’ve ever been in your life, or that your joy and happiness spill over on others. Like all the other best things in life, the joy of the Lord is best when shared.

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Romans 14:17 (NIV) For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit,

2 Corinthians 11:23 (NIV) Are they servants of Christ? (I am out of my mind to talk like this.) I am more. I have worked much harder, been in prison more frequently, been flogged more severely, and been exposed to death again and again.

Acts 20:24 (NIV) However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.