Monday morning has arrived and with it the testing of the Truth you so enjoyed hearing on the Sunday before! Coming down your drive while you're in the middle of devotional study is maybe that "repeat challenger" that always has "too much month for his money."
Then, the phone rings. It's the "friend" that only wishes to talk with you for an hour or so concerning the same song of woe you've listened to so many times before. Of course, the issue isn't unwillingness to help with these matters, but the fact that help is not wanted in the real sense that will make a difference.
Someone said, (and it seems so true), "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, then expecting a different result." Ouch! anon
As believers, when confronted with such challenges that we all encounter, this will create less than a happy disposition. However, can it, or should it, steal our joy?
For starters, we must realize that except for God's grace, we are this irritating one, and most likely, at times, we are anyway, to someone somewhere. So, yes, keep it ever so humble. Pray, quickly if necessary, in given situations for wisdom, guidance, and proper attitude for response. We must always remember that in Christ all of the circumstances of life are things used to work His purposes in and for us. Trying situations are a means of increased patience for maturity in our walk with Christ. (see James 1:2-5 below)
The fact that we may be unhappy in given circumstances does not mean we have lost the "joy of the Lord." His joy is our strength. This is how we persevere in the trial. We were given this great joy in our salvation. It is evident in the fruit of the Spirit characterizing the life of the believer. (see Gal. 6:22-26 below)
With these things in mind, how then could joy ever be stolen from our lives as His children? The apostles spoke of believers having "fullness of joy." One could be inclined to think by this that our joy level could be influenced and experience fluctuations in volume as we pursue our course of life. But, in His presence is "fullness of joy." (see Psa. 16:11; 2 Jn. 12 below)
Whatever the irritation, distraction, testing, or trial, remember that in the presence of the Lord is fullness of joy. Our strength is found in joy. Begin to worship and thank Him for counting us worthy to be a recipient of His joy. May we respond in His confidence to the events of each given day.
Faithful is He to perform His promises.
Blessings in Christ,
Julie
Scripture references:
James 1:2-5 "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
Gal. 5:22-26 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
Psalm 16:11 "You make known to me the path of life in your presence there is fullness of joy at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
2 John 12 "Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete."
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