I've Got Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy Down In My Heart, Where?

My Utmost For His Highest

 

These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. —John 15:11

 

“What was the joy that Jesus had? Joy should not be confused with happiness. […] The joy of Jesus was His absolute self-surrender and self-sacrifice to His Father— the joy of doing that which the Father sent Him to do— “…who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross…” (Hebrews 12:2). “I delight to do Your will, O my God…” (Psalm 40:8). […] Living a full and overflowing life does not rest in bodily health, in circumstances, nor even in seeing God’s work succeed, but in the perfect understanding of God, and in the same fellowship and oneness with Him that Jesus Himself enjoyed. But the first thing that will hinder this joy is the subtle irritability caused by giving too much thought to our circumstances. Jesus said, “…the cares of this world,…choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful” (Mark 4:19). […] Have the right relationship with God, finding your joy there, and out of you “will flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38).” CHAMBERS

 

Joy is sitting on your sofa, curled up in a warm blanket, sensing that all is well, at least for that moment.  It is hard to separate joy from peace and peace from contentment. All part of the fruit of the Spirit, joy is a result of the square peg finding its place in a square hole.  You experience joy when your life is consistent with what  God has purposed for you.  Your life is surrendered to your creator.  You are aware that you are His and there is nothing that can come your way that might change that.  You have found your place amongst the others who are members of the great orchestra of creation.  And at that moment, cuddled up in the arms of Jesus, you know that all is well.  All is well in spite of the calamity that rages around you.  (Psalm 28:7) “Blessed be the Lord, Because He has heard the voice of my supplications! The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, And with my song I will praise Him.” ELGIN