“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (Jo 15:11).
Hallelujah! Do you see what I’m seeing here brethren? Christ’s goal in teaching us to abide in His love and in Himself is for us to experience the fullness of joy. It’s contrary to our typical conception of God’s commandments and His will as burdensome and killjoy! Honestly speaking, how many of us have come to the point of experiencing full joy? We can be so accustomed to traces of joy in our lives that we come to accept that as the norm. Some Christians are so uptight and joyless that their testimony is weak. We shouldn’t be nervous about being joyful. Our worship must be joyful. Our ministry must be joyful. Our giving must be cheerful. Our relationships must be joyful. Let holy mirth and laughter fill our hearts and homes once again. Let our frowns become smiles and our sorrow turn to dancing. Let the fullness of Christ’s joy saturate your whole life through and through.
Pastor Josh