Start Sharp: 21 Days of Prayer and FastingSample

JOY OF THE LORD

The joy of the Lord is everlasting and it is always available to us. It can be easy to confuse the joy of the Lord with happiness. Happiness is a feeling or an emotion that can come or go based on any number of factors around you. Sometimes we can get tricked into thinking if something changes we will find happiness. Maybe if we just get enough money in our bank account or if we meet the right person, or reach our goals then we will be happy. The truth is God’s Word offers us an even better promise. In Jesus, we have access to the joy of the Lord which is not dependent upon our emotions or our achievements but is eternally found in Him. The joy of the Lord is the gladness and gratefulness in our hearts that overflow from trusting and building a relationship with God. The Bible says the joy of the Lord is our strength! His joy may not make sense given our circumstances, but it is what pushes us forward and sustains us to not only survive but thrive. The joy of the Lord is what left Peter and Silas worshiping and praising the goodness of God even though they found themselves in a prison cell. The joy we carry as believers in Christ is contagious and reflects the love of God and His goodness to those we encounter.

Application/ Reflection:

• How have you confused joy with happiness before?
• Where do you need a fresh perspective of the joy of the Lord in your life?
• How can you encourage someone around you with the joy of the Lord today?

Prayer:

Lord, I thank You that Your joy is my strength. I thank You that by remaining in a relationship with You, I have access to Your joy at all times. Even during a trial, I can count it joy because You are with me and for me. I thank You that I can carry Your joy wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, amen!