In Touch Daily Devotional
The Empowering Emotion of Joy
Read | John 15:9-17
Jesus promised us His joy. However, such gladness evades most Christians.
There are certain important points that we must understand about joy. This gift to every believer in Christ has a spiritual source—the Holy Spirit—and is produced from within by Him. Since divine joy is supernatural, it exists independently of our circumstances. In contrast, happiness comes from external causes, is earthly in nature, and increases or decreases as events change. Recognition by others, completion of a project, and a favorite team’s win all represent sources of earthly happiness.
Joy will emanate from the Holy Spirit as we . . .
• Focus on our relationship with Jesus. Because of the Lord, our sins are forgiven, our names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and we are forever His. Nothing can separate us from Him now or in eternity.
• See His transforming work in others. Notice and draw pleasure from what God is doing: rescuing people from bondage to sin and conforming them to His Son’s likeness.
• Serve those He sends to us. Obedient, loving care for others brings spiritual joy.
• Meditate on God’s Word. Through Scripture, we receive an outpouring of His love and precious truths on which to build our lives.
The Holy Spirit desires to produce His gladness within you. Take a few minutes to ponder the wonder of your new birth, share someone’s spiritual joy, serve as God directs, or receive guidance from His Word. Then check your emotional barometer. Are you singing hallelujah yet?
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