There is a distinct
difference between JOY and HAPPINESS.
HAPPINESS is
entirely situational. Typically, we feel happy because of something that
has occurred. For example, we might have received a compliment, a gift, a
promotion, or an introduction to someone special – which causes us to break out
into our HAPPY DANCE!
JOY is a very
different phenomenon. The Word decrees that “the joy of the Lord is my
strength” and “with joy (I will) draw water from the wells of salvation” and it
further advises me to “count it all joy” when encountering challenges or
opposition. This is not some superficial suggestion that I maintain a
happy feeling or a smiley face in the midst of problematic situations.
(Nehemiah 8:10 – Isaiah12:3 – James 1:2-3)
Rather, it is a faith directive.
Here’s what the Holy
Spirit revealed to me about joy. “JOY is the ASSURANCE that CHRIST is at
the CENTER of my CIRCUMSTANCES.” It bears repetition: “JOY is the
ASSURANCE that CHRIST is at the CENTER of my CIRCUMSTANCES.” In that
sense, JOY and PEACE are first-cousins. Due to my CONFIDENCE in the COVENANT PROMISES OF GOD, I maintain
FULL FAITH that HE will come through for me – no matter what I am presently
experiencing. (Hebrews 10:35) To wit, JOY and PEACE are derivatives of DIVINE
ASSURANCE.
Allow me to be
totally transparent with you. I cannot honestly say that I am HAPPY all
the time. But deep in my heart, I always maintain a RESERVOIR OF JOY because I know
that HE KNOWS, and I know that HE CARES. The famous blind hymn composer, Fanny
J. Crosby, stated it far more eloquently than I. In her words, JOY is “BLESSED ASSURANCE THAT JESUS IS MINE –
oh, what a foretaste of glory divine.” So even in the midst of
unimaginable pain and sorrow, HOLY
SPIRIT BREATHED JOY enables me to SING: “This is my story, this is
my song – praising my Savior all the day long!” [Blessed Assurance – Fanny J.
Crosby]
Sisters and
brothers, be continually blessed and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE
READY TO MEET YOUR SOON COMING KING.
Maranatha!
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