Joy is just a three-letter word and yet it speaks volumes, especially to Christians. The Lord Jesus Christ is the source of the christian’s joy, and He is the perfect example of joy Himself. Consider what the Bible says concerning His imminent death on the cross. “Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of God” (Hebrews 12:2).
Joy means a good feeling of great pleasure and delight, irrespective of the outcome or circumstance. There is a difference between joy and happiness. Happiness is the response to circumstance. In other words, if things are working in my favor, I’m happy. However, if the opposite is true, then I will not be happy.
The Apostle James wrote, “Count it all joy when you meet trials of various kinds.” Here’s the reason. “The testing of your faith produces steadfastness and let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:2-4). Also, the Apostle Peter writes, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange was happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when His glory is revealed” (1 Peter 4:12-13). It is clear in these two passages that having joy is absolutely essential to the Christian life. The prophet Jeremiah declared that God’s word “became the joy and delight of his heart” (Jeremiah 15:16).
The Apostle Paul was filled with so much joy in severing God that he never failed to express his joy in various situations. As he said farewell to the Ephesians Elders, he told them, “I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me nor do I count my life dear to myself so that I may finish my race with joy” (Acts 20:22-24). Paul was devoted in his life and service for God to the extent that he wanted to finish the christian race with joy. Obedience to God will definitely bring great joy in our lives.
King David sinned against God and was confronted by the prophet Nathan. In acknowledging his sin, David asked God, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit” (Psalm 51:12). Oh, the joy that salvation brings to the believer in Jesus Christ. No wonder Peter writes, “Though you have not seen Him, you love him. Though you do not now see Him, you believe in Him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory” (1 Peter 1:8). This is real joy – “joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.” Hallelujah!
Joy can be found in all aspects of the christian life and service. Here are some examples. Joy of christian fellowship, joy of giving, joy of praying, joy of reading and studying God’s word, joy of witnessing, joy of godly living, joy of going to church, joy of worshipping and serving God, joy of giving thanks to God, joy of forgiveness, joy of helping others, and so on. Let joy be unconfined.