I was just reading in 1 Thessalonians this morning, where Paul is telling the church that they are his "glory" and "joy" due to their response to the gospel that was preached to them and their continued faithfulness and spiritual growth inspite of severe persecution. I started to think about those who lack joy in their lives. Everday Christians who go day in and day out without really ever experiencing "Joy." Could it be that we sometimes look for "Joy" in places where "Joy" cannot be found? And thn we wonder what is missing form our Christian Walk and our experience with God?? Remember that Paul's "Joy" came from the fruit of sharing his faith and spreading the gospel! Could it be that we need a little nudge to go out and plant those seeds so that our "Joy" may be found in the fruit of other peoples faith in Christ?
Until the nets are full...
Way of the Pastor,
Joe Drew
I'm sure you know of the recurrence that is in Philippians... but just take a look for "joy" and "rejoice" throughout that book... Goes right along with everything you are saying!
ReplyDeleteIn the Battle,
DJ
One more comment to that... People are deceived Joe!... They tend to make this agreement... that we just won't have any joy... I'll drop some scripture when I get home.
ReplyDelete