Devotion:
Read Philippians 4:4-9.
The book of Philippians is one of my very favorite books in the Bible. It is so encouraging and talks of the joy in Christ. To me this book that Paul wrote is just one long thank you note. Verse 4:4 says “rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice.” This is the way to live no matter what is going on in our lives. Christ’s coming to bring salvation allows for exuberant joy in the world. The Holy Spirit in us makes the joy of God personal. We no longer need to search for joy, we have it! Paul explains that when we have the joy of the Lord, we have the peace of God as well.
The joy that Paul shares with his readers is based on the truth that the Lord is near. God is never far away from his children and wants us to feel his presence. He is our spiritual parent. He knows what we are going through, how we are suffering, and he is always ready to guide and comfort us. Nothing can separate us from his wonderful love. That, my friends, is pure joy for all of us to have.
Personal Worship Option:
God we are living in a world that is missing deep joy because of disease, disaster, world fighting, and emotional distress. We desperately need your joy. Holy Spirit, fill us with the joy of the Lord, we pray. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
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