This is part 3 of a 10-part series. View the entire series here.
“I have told you these things so that you will be filled with My joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” – John 15:11 NLT
Good News of Great Joy
A baby is born and placed in a manger as angels visit shepherds in the nearby fields, carrying a message that would change the world: “Don’t be afraid!...I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!” (Luke 2:10b-11 NLT).
God’s plan of redemption always came with the promise of bringing great joy to the world. Life with God is just as much for God’s glory as it is for the satisfaction of our souls. If we are to discover joy, we must first discover the wonders of God. The deeper we dive into His character and heart, the deeper we dive into the wellspring of joy.
Rejoice Always
Throughout the book of Philippians, the apostle Paul outlines the life of joy offered to believers. Despite his imprisonment, jealous rivals, and uncertainty about life ahead, the faithful disciple continued to see light in the darkness.
Philippians 3:1 reads, “Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith.”
The word rejoice means to find great joy in something or someone. In other words, Paul is telling us that whatever happens, we can find joy in the Lord.
This is the not-so-secret secret to having joy at all times. When we look for happiness through things that come and go, our happiness comes and goes along with it. The joy of the Lord is unfading. It never departs from us and it can’t be taken away because it’s rooted in an unshakable foundation––God.
Growing in Joy
Where does this leave us in the search for joy? Primarily, it means the search is over. We don’t need to chase down momentary pleasures. We can put aside striving for more––more money, more promotions, more awards and accolades.
The search for joy is over. Everything you need to live a life of contentment, peace, and fulfillment can be found in Jesus and the grace He gives. When we find all of these things in Him––the unchanging God––nothing could ever rob us of our joy. Grow in your relationship with Jesus and the fruit of joy is sure to follow.
