A Complete Joy

I like study bibles because they give you commentary on scriptures and help define meaning.

In my study bible, it discusses the meaning of happiness, and it states, "the word happiness evokes visions of unwrappping gifts on Christmas morning, strolling hand in hand with the one you love, being surprised on your birthday, or vacationing in an exotic locale.

Everyone wants to be happy; we make chasing this elusive ideal a lifelong pursuit: spending money, collecting things, and searching for new experiences.

But if happiness depends on our circumstances, what happens when the toys rust, loved ones die, health deteriorates, money is stolen, and the party is over? Often happiness flees and dispair sets in. In contrast to happiness stands joy.

Running deeper and stronger, joy is the quiet, confident assurance of God's love and work in our lives --- that He will be there no matter what.

Happiness depends on happenings, but joy depends on Christ."

Can you be content in the joy of the Lord? Ever heard the expression, "don't let them steal your joy!" I know I tell my children this often, "beware of the enemy, who like a thief, wants to steal your joy." The thief, of course, being Satan, who iwants to constantly attack a child of God.

Rejoicing or joy appears 16 times in the book of Philippians. The Apostle Paul who was the author of this book felt it so important that he mentioned it 16 times! Wow! This book is subtitled into four chapters where Paul discusses 1) joy in suffering; 2) joy in serving; 3) joy in believing; and 4) joy in giving. We are to have joy in all these areas.

In a life dedicated to serving Christ, Paul had faced excruciating poverty, abundant wealth, and everything in between. Whatever circumstances he found himself in, the Apostle learned to be content, finding real joy as he focused all his attention and energy on Christ.

Philippians 4:4-6 are scriptures well know to many of us, and it states: "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Thought for Today: May we share Paul's aspiration and seek to know Jesus Christ more and more. Rejoice and rededicate yourself to finding joy in Christ.