Joy in the Journey

Joy is necessary for this journey of life. Not phony smiles, but genuine joy in the deep crevices of our souls.

Even when our destination seems unknown, the supernatural joy of the Lord brings a new perspective stability in trials. God is sovereign and knows our path. When we look to Him, we will find this precious gift for the journey.

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Psalm 16:11 NIV

The other day I felt discouraged. My mood matched the overcast skies. When I looked into the Word of God, I discovered more about choosing true joy; my attitude improved.

There is joy in the Lord’s presence; He knows you.

God is Emmanuel, the God Who is With Us. Even if we feel alone or downcast, when we refocus our thoughts on the Lord, we can know God’s presence. He knows us a desires relationship with us on the journey. Why?

• He knows your name.

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine. Isaiah 43:1 NIV

• He has not forgotten you.

Can a mother forget the baby at her breast
and have no compassion on the child she has borne?
Though she may forget, I will not forget you!
See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands. Isaiah 49:15-16a NIV

When I remember those biblical truths, the comfort of joy enters my heart and I feel closer to God in His presence.

Joy gives us a better perspective.

Scripture promises hope that outlasts the trial. We call to God; He hears us. We look to God while we wait in the trial. The darkness may seem great, but the Lord is greater.  We can look ahead to a time when rejoicing comes in the morning, anticipating the good work of the Lord. He gives us a perspective  of perseverance that He will use the difficult circumstances for His purposes.

Lord my God, I called to you for help,and you healed me. You, Lord, brought me up from the realm of the dead; you spared me from going down to the pit. 

Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people; praise his holy name. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. Psalm 30:1-5

Joy in the Lord gives stability and endurance in trials.

Our attitude during trials is important. When the struggle continues, we get weary, tired and discouraged. When I get like this, the Lord reminds me of an “in course attitude adjustment” that draws me back to Him. I admit my bad attitude and confess my need for the Lord.  He lifts my spirit with the delight of knowing Him.

With the Lord, character and inner endurance increase during the heat of trials. The joy of the Lord is a stabilizer in trials.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 

Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4