Thoughtful Things

There is joy in the morning! The Bible says “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. —John 15:11 What was the joy that Jesus had spoken about in this scripture? The joy of Jesus was His absolute self-surrender and self-sacrifice to the cross. Nehemiah 8:10 ”The joy of the Lord is our strength” He gives you a joy which is unspeakable, a joy that over flows, a joy which keeps you going inspite of hardship and through the trials of life. His joy is a joy which the world can neither understand, nor can it take away from the saints of God, for you have something in which to be joyful, and that is the fact that in Him you have a new life.

Living a full and overflowing life does not rest in bodily health, in circumstances, nor even in seeing God’s work succeed, but in the perfect understanding of God, and in the same fellowship and oneness with Him that Jesus Himself enjoyed. But the first thing that will hinder this joy is the subtle irritability caused by giving too much thought to our circumstances. Jesus said, “…the cares of this world,… choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful” (Mark 4:19). And before we even realize what has happened, we are caught up in our cares. All that God has done for us is merely the threshold— He wants us to come to the place where we will be His witnesses and proclaim who Jesus is. Having a relationship with God is our strength and joy!

My friend, your strength comes from the Lord, your joy comes from Him. It is through His joy that you draw your strength from and His joy is one which never fades, His joy is full of victory. When I feel a bit down, or things try and get on top of me, or circumstances try and get the better of me, I look to Jesus for inspiration, and I life my voice to Him and sing. His joy keeps me going, His joy keeps me smiling through the hard times and His joy cheers my soul. The think upon this wonderful verse of Scripture from Isaiah 61:3 (NIV) He has given you a crown of beauty for ashes, The oil of gladness instead of mourning, And a garment of praise instead of the spirit of despair. So if you are in your mid night hour just keep the faith and remember that joy comes in the morning. Pleas join us at The Family Church 9456 Hwy 146 N Liberty, TX or facebook live at @tfchardin.