God is offering you infinite joy.The real question we have to answer is: Do you know how to receive it?
When it comes to joy, we generally choose between two options:Rely on me → Trying to manufacture joy through what we get or do.Rely on Him → Receiving joy as a gift from Christ, which we then choose to cultivate.Jesus possessed maximum, uncorrupted joy because He was completely without sin. When He says in John 15:11, “that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full,” He is offering us access to His very own joy!If we want to increase and cultivate that joy in our daily lives, we have to remember four things about Him:Remember His Passion
Jesus laid down His life for His sheep. There is no greater love than this. When we anchor our hearts in the sacrificial, unearned grace of the cross, true joy begins and grows.Remember His Presence
Jesus knows His sheep, and His sheep hear His voice. True joy is directly connected to abiding in the Vine and walking in obedience to His commands. Sin diminishes our joy, but abiding in His presence restores it. Remember His Promises
Our joy isn’t limited to this life. Jesus promises us an eternal home in Heaven—an indestructible hope that anchors us no matter what earthly circumstances we face.Remember His Purpose
We all want our lives to matter and make an impact. Jesus tells us that when we abide in Him, we glorify the Father by bearing much fruit—fruit that abides for eternity. Your life has eternal purpose in Christ.
A Question for Your Week: Are you trying to manufacture joy on your own strength, or are you abiding in the One whose joy is maxed out and offered freely to you?Take time this week to remain in the Vine, listen to His voice, and walk in the fullness of His joy. |
