THAT YOUR JOY MAY BE FULLExtra from Volume 10#2 by Martha Joy B. |
“A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” Proverbs 15:13 Our Reason to Be Cheerful Psalm 5:11,12 says, “But let all those that put their trust in Thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because Thou defendest them: let them also that love Thy name be joyful in Thee. For Thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favor wilt Thou compass him as with a shield.” Our loving Father is always there to shelter and protect us – He is our salvation and high tower (Psalm 18:1-3). Whenever we fall, He is there to lift us up out of the dust (Psalm 147:6), and heal our wounds (Psalm 147:2,3). “Thou wilt show me the path of life: in Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore,” (Psalm 16:11) “For the joy of the LORD is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10b) In Him we find true joy. Although we might seek happiness elsewhere -such as in money, other people, earthly, material riches – we can only find fulfillment in YHWH, in our relationship with Him. Our friendship with Him is the one that can last forever! “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.” (Romans 14:17) With this in mind, we find joy in knowing Him more, in seeking His kingdom, and trying to give glory to His name – being righteous, peaceable and joyful! “And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD: it shall rejoice in His salvation.” Psalm 35:9 Finding and Keeping True Joy Jesus said, in John 15:11, “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” In God’s word we find valuable truths, promises, God’s commands, and encouragement. By diving into it and reading through its jewels and gems, we ourselves learn how He wants us to act, how we should speak, and how to please Him. Through obeying Him and living our lives for Him, we find joy, knowing that we are pleasing and glorifying Him. James said, “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” (James 1:2,3) Although we might seem overwhelmed or hurt now, keep pressing on towards that goal (Philippians 3:14), and never let go (Psalm 63:8). Ask Him for help (Matthew 7:7,8) and keep seeking (Matthew 7:7,8)! “But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” (1 Peter 4:13) Be thankful for opportunities to be a shining light (Matthew 5:16) for Him, in this world of darkness! Spread the Joy A friendly smile, a hug, an encouraging word, or singing a song, could bring joy to someone else’s life in a special way. You don’t know what people might be going through at that moment, but by being armed with a cheerful countenance you might possibly uplift them. Pray for God’s guidance, that you would be a light to others for Him! One way to spread cheerfulness throughout your home is to help out. Our mother does so much for us daily, and although it’s usually more fun to please our own self, remember that she daily takes time to help and provide for you! So, each day take a moment and ask if you can help. Or surprise her by doing the laundry, picking up, or making all or part of a meal. I’m sure she would greatly appreciate it! Also ask the rest of your family if you can lend a hand. Or, if someone asks you to do something for them, don’t begrudgingly do it, or say you can’t right now, but put a smile on your face and thank God for the opportunity to spend time with your family and serve them. “Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.” James 5:9 Or if you see someone in need, give to them in love, and tell about YHWH and what He’s done for you. Don’t bring glory to yourself, because of righteous deeds, but give praise to God. Spread the joy! “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Cor. 9:7 “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23,24 Martha Joy (16) lives with her family and enjoys raising animals, playing music, writing, memorizing Bible verses, publishing her monthly girls’ magazine, knitting, and more, and wants to seek her Father first each day! |
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