My quest for joy continued this morning with more noteworthy (and quite simply amazing) perspectives on this tricky idea of joy, true joy that is. Nehemiah 12:43 says, "... and the joy of Jerusalem was heard far away". In other words, what the people of God were known for was their joy rather than their rules, judgmental attitudes, and generally downtrodden demeanor (used to be me!). What an amazing thing to be known for right?! Just take a moment to imagine with me what it would be like if the American church was known for its joy instead of its other not-so-attractive-but-commonly-pointed-out qualities. Unquestionably the influence of the church would increase dramatically and church elders would be scrambling to find new buildings as their capacities are overwhelmed- a good problem if you ask me. There is a key to this type of joy, however, and its revealed in Psalm 4:7- "You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound." David is suggesting that his joy is more full than any of his friends who have an abundance of food, provision, houses, cars (or mules) etc. Joy is not dependent on any of these being present on your life! This means that whatever your social class or yearly income is you can still walk in the joy of the Lord which is your strength! Remember that your joy is not dependent on your circumstances this holiday season when the in-laws come over, the eggnog gets spilled, your favorite Santa plate gets broken because Satan knows that if he can steal your joy he will steal your strength in the process!
