April 26, 2023
Wednesday
Permanent Joy
Acts 5:40-42
16 Rejoice evermore.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”
Through the modern musical era in the West, there have been many songs written about happiness—but fewer written about joy. Most people would see those two subjects as synonymous but, biblically speaking, they are not. And the Bible puts far more emphasis on joy than on happiness. “Joy” and “rejoice” occur more than four hundred times while “happy” and “happiness” and similar words occur slightly more than twenty times.
What is the difference between the two? Generally speaking, happiness is an emotion that is dependent on circumstances. Joy, on the other hand, is a deep-seated conviction that is based on truth and faith, not circumstances. Joy is specifically listed as part of the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Paul illustrates the permanence of joy when he writes, “Rejoice always . . . in everything give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Some things in life don’t create happiness or laughter. But the conviction that God is in the midst of our circumstances can lead to joy and contentment. Even if our circumstances lead to tears, “joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).
Don’t let anything steal your joy. Trust in the Lord, be filled with His Spirit, and trust His sovereign will for your life.
A point to ponder…
Doubt breeds distress, but trust means joy in the long run.
C. H. Spurgeon
Read the Bible through in a year
I love you!!!
© 2000-2023 B. Michael Goerlich