Categories
Preparing the Bride of Jesus Christ

Joy

“I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy, down in my heart… down in my heart to stay!” (George William Cooke, Doncaster England)

Joy

“For the joy of the LORD is our strength” (Nehemiah 8:10)

This verse comes from Nehemiah whilst he and the Jewish people were rebuilding the walls in Jerusalem, working 24/7 shifts with a rotation to allow for sleep.

“In His is presence is fullness of joy.” (Psalm 16:11b)

Even the very word “joy” evokes in me hope, excitement, enthusiasm, happiness.

GOD gives us Joy

He gives us a reason to be. He gives us opportunity to express that reason. He brings us into families so we’re not alone in our expression. 

Joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), it is straight from GOD. We who know and experience joy are truly blessed indeed.

Let’s be grateful

No matter what is thrown at us, let us remember GOD enables us to get through adversity. Sometimes He puts us into difficulties but always He provides us with the ability to overcome. Adversity always helps us to grow. And He promises that He will, “never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)

Overcome

Let us remember to “rejoice in the LORD always.” (Philippians 4:4) Joy is a fruit of the Spirit which is expressed through our attitude of endurance and thanksgiving.

Praise helps us to overcome. May we never underestimate the power of praise to GOD.

Remember one of many promises, “He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his GOD and he shall be My son.” (Revelation 21:7)

Joy is a significant help in our overcoming process. Truly, the joy of the LORD is our strength! 

Hallelujah and Amen

Categories
Reflections and Poetry

What brings Life: a reflection

Love. Joy. Peace.

These are life-giving states of being. When I am full of love, I bring love to others.
When I am full of the Joy of my Lord, I emanate joy and others can catch it.

When I walk in God’s Shalom – His peace which passes all understanding – I offer peace to others.

Those things which bring life to us, when shared, bring life to others.

I’m realising, as I allow myself to surrender to what comes along my path, that I have more peace, because I’m surrendered to the unfolding events of the day. I have more joy, because within me is hope, strength and a rejoicing in the Lord who gives me my breath. And I have more love, because I am “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) and that my soul knows very well.

I am loved for who I am, not for what I do; that is satisfying and an encouragement that reaches out to others, both naturally and supernaturally.

Love. Joy. Peace. To be received and to be shared. Hallelujah!