As we journey through this world as the pilgrims that we are, do we take the time to recognize the joy which is ours? There are constant glimpses of the joy which we have because of our intimate relationship with God presented to us. Do we see them and recognize the Holy Spirits work within us? Sometimes it is a whispering peace in the center of our conflicts and at other moments it is an overpowering of joy found only because we recognize the significance of this Gospel of grace which we have been given. That overflowing joy is more evident when we share it. Not as sorrowful, mourning people. God is a joyous, happy God pouring out His love and joy upon us. We see and share the outpouring of that joy most in random acts of love and kindness. That is a way to shine forth His Joy further to a world who needs Him. Are you joyous over the fact that He chose you, He loved you, He sacrificed everything that you might be His child? Is that not enough to make your heart sing? Is that not enough to cause you to want to shout with joyous praise? Is He not enough to fill your heart with joy? Do you treasure Him as your greatest treasure? Let us look at two scriptures for further guidance.
photo used by permission Sarah Barba
God’s Love and Joy Displayed
1 Timothy 1: 11“According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust."
John 15: 9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.
11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
John Mason wrote the hymn My Soul Doth Magnify the Lord in 1694. Three of the verses are as follows.
My Soul doth magnify the Lord,
My spirit doth rejoice
In God my Savior and my God
I hear his joyful voice
I need not go abroad for joy,
Who have a feast at home;
My sighs are turned into songs,
The comforter is come
Down from above, the blessed dove
Is come into my breast
To witness God’s eternal love
This is my heavenly feast
So, my dear fellow pilgrim, Let me ask you these questions to ponder
1. Do you recognize how joyously happy God is provide you Himself through the gospel of Christ?
2. Do you feel the joy of the Holy Spirit rising within your spirit into a praise song for God?
3. Are you sharing the Love and Joy of the gospel to others? Remember joy begets joy.
4. What sacrifice is too much, what counterfeit joy too alluring, or what earthly treasure so important to prevent you from spreading the Glorious Gospel of the Joyous God with what talents you have been given and in the place where God has placed you? – See more at: https://myglorytoglory.com/archives/155#sthash.58MlpyBj.dpuf
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSluga0qQMg
© 2013 Effie Darlene Barba
Photo by Sarah Barba ©2013 used by written permission. Available at: http://fineartamerica.com/featured/i-do-sarah-barba.html
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Wow, thank you. I am so sorry I did not respond sooner; but just now read this. Funny how God does that sometimes; says a precious gift until the very moment you need it most. Thank you Carrie for your gift.
Effie, knowing what you have been through in your life makes Christ’s light shine that much brighter through you! No matter in what form the attacks may come, you remain tender of heart, strong of will, and steadfast in unshakable faith. Thank you for your devotion to helping others as we walk with Christ!