Please read the devotional first today from David Jeremiah’s Daily in His Presence. It is below my writing as a picture, then what I’m writing will make more sense.
The difference between joy and happiness David says, is generally, happiness is an emotion that is dependent on circumstances, however joy, is a deep-seated conviction that is based on truth and faith, not circumstance.
A conviction is a firmly held belief or opinion, so when we hold a conviction to our faith it means we stand by our faith and believe in it no matter the circumstances. In Paul’s letter to the Philippians he stands on the truth of the word, because his faith was well-founded in Jesus. He was in prison when he wrote this letter. You would not expect someone who is in prison to have a deep joy but as you read Paul’s letter, (it’s only four chapters so please read it for yourself), you will see as a servant of Christ, he was able to further the gospel. Paul says, “My deep desire and hope is that I should never fail in my duty, but that at all times, and especially right now, I should be full of courage, so that with my whole being I shall bring honour to Christ, whether I live or die”. Chapter 1 verse 20. This is indeed quite a statement/testimony, and if only we could all measure up to this on a daily basis what joy would overflow our hearts.
His desire to honour Christ was the deep joy and contentment that allowed him to still preach even in his circumstance of imprisonment. Paul reminds us in his letter that unity in Christ will shape our conduct, allow us to be consistent in our faith and be co-operative with one another as we share the gospel to those we meet. When we show a gentle attitude toward everyone, as suggested in Chapter 4 verse 5, I dare say verse 7 of Chapter 4 makes sense as it reads; “And God‘s peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus”.
If we spend our days with our focus on Jesus, and not on our circumstances, then joy will fill our hearts and minds.
When we honour the word and instruction of the Lord, contentment and joy will be deep rooted within us, and our circumstances will come and go, bringing both happiness and sadness, but they will only last for a short time as, the peace of God will always cover our circumstances. God gives us “strength” daily to face each challenge/circumstance and the “power of Christ” within us brings us through every challenge/circumstance. Every need is met daily by the abundant Father we serve.
Paul’s message to the church that he was writing to at the time, the Church at Philippi, and his message to us today, is found in Chapter 4 verse 4,
(4)”May you always be joyful in your union with the Lord. I say it again, rejoice!”.
To this statement and prayer, I add a hearty, Amen!!
All scriptures used today are from the Good News Bible. Please take time to read through Paul’s letter, it is the eleventh book in the New Testament entitled, Philippians.
The day is overcast but the glory of God is just behind the clouds. It will burst through as it always does! Therein lies the joy.
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