Increase My Joy
We gifted these two grands with magnetic buddy socks! These smiles increased my joy.
God has lots to say about JOY in his Word!
"The joy of the Lord is your strength." Nehemiah 8:10
Years ago, 1994, I read an excellent take on where our joy comes from by John Piper.
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/where-does-joy-come-from
Nibble on what Piper says here:
"What is extraordinary about Paul is how unbelievably durable his joy was when things weren’t going well. For example: “I am overflowing with joy in all our affliction” (2 Corinthians 7:4). Or “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake” (Colossians 1:24).
Where did this come from? First of all it was taught by Jesus: “Blessed are you when men hate you ... Be glad in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven” (Luke 6:22-23). Troubles for Jesus compound your interest in heaven—which last a lot longer than earth."
Real joy comes from the love God has poured out over us and the Holy Spirit he has given us. There's a reason to be thankful this Thanksgiving. We don't have to conjure up joy from within ourselves, that will lead to sadness. We just have to receive the all sufficient love and joy God has given us. It's a gift that keeps on giving into eternity.
"Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy." John 17:13 NLT
"Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." John 16:24
Have a joyous Thanksgiving with Jesus! He and I are taking a few days off together.
