Having Joy

By Paul Chappell

"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. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full."

John 15:10-11

The verb rejoice is found ninety-six times in the New Testament (including those times when used as a greeting). Also, the noun joy is used another fifty-nine times. It's easy to see that God puts a priority on joy and on the believer experiencing a life of joy.

Joy isn't a feeling or emotion based on circumstances; it is a state of being, a gift from the Holy Spirit. God has given us joy through the Holy Spirit and we must look to Him for joy each day. God points to Himself in John 15 as the source of joy. Because of who He is, what He's done, and where you're going one day, you can have joy.

Schedules frustrate, meetings bore, problems anger, responsibilities overwhelm, and life is hectic. But even when you are swamped or things don't go your way, God desires for you to experience His joy. Unconditional joy is not found in yourself, your surroundings, or others; it is from God.

What situation on earth is so terrible that it overshadows the joy of knowing one day you'll live with God forever in Heaven? What can be so bad that knowing Christ cannot bring you joy? If we were truthful, we'd have to admit that our lack of joy comes from focusing on earthly problems rather than God's goodness.

Take a few minutes to consider the goodness of God. Focus on Him today and allow His joy to fill your life.