Christians find Joy in Christ!
November 5, 2009 by WebPastor
Filed under Weekly Words
Dear friend,
The greatest happiness in the universe can be found in God. Far from being an always-angry character whose primary purpose is to spoil the fun of humankind, the God of the Bible is intent on bringing perfect joy to his people.
The scripture does not command the world to be mournful, but rather says, “Shout for joy to the Lord all the earth!” (Ps. 100:1). Even obedience to God’s commandments is intended for the joy of those who obey. Jesus himself, after commanding obedience from his disciples, says, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11) and the psalmist says the rules of the Lord give “joy to the heart” (Ps. 19:8).
Nowhere is joy experienced more fully than in a right relationship with God which comes through faith in Christ Jesus. King David writes of the “joy of salvation” (Ps. 51:12) and the Philippian Christian’s found their “joy in Christ” (Phil. 1:6). The treasures and pleasures of this present world pale in comparison to the promise of God to fill the Christian with joy as he or she enjoys a relationship with the Almighty and looks forward to a perfect heavenly home.
“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” (Ps. 16:11).
Your servant,
Stephen
Rev. Stephen St. John
Pastor/Elder