Saturday, May 7, 2011

Biblical joy

Tomorrow we get to dig into three of the Bible's shortest but most significant commands: "Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all things, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (I Thes. 5:16-18)

Here's a foretaste: What is biblical joy? It is a state of deep, unshakable, inner satisfaction and optimism in Who God is for us in Christ. Think about that. Does that define you? If not, why not?

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

I think that's a pretty good definition, Andy. I will add a testimony about joy:

Three weeks ago I was diagnosed with cancer, and strangely enough, the last three weeks have been filled with great joy. I think the reason for this is that when God disciplines his children, it is in order to draw us near to himself, and the result is joy/happiness, for God's nearness brings joy.

The cancer is a treatable kind of lymphoma. I've wanted to let you and Michael, my pastor friends from facebook and RTS, know about this, so I thought this might be the opportune time. I appreciate any prayers directed my way. Bill