I worked maintenance at a church while I was in college, but for a while I did not have a key to the building. I had to rely on other people to let me in or prop open the back door so I did not get locked out. Eventually, I earned the privilege of having a key, and I could let myself in anytime I needed. But the new key also brought responsibility as I was now the one who had to open the building for other people.
For Christians, we have the great privilege of true joy. This is a deep gladness that goes beyond a surface level happiness based on circumstances. We can have deep joy no matter what we face. Since Jesus is the only source of joy, we also have the responsibility to follow Him daily. We do not find joy by accident, but John 15:8-11 shows us that it comes from the intentional decision to pursue Christ in everything we do.
8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. – John 15:8-11
- Joy comes as we choose obedience
Being truly connected to God can only happen if we are obedient to Him. Following His commands is the proof that we love and trust God. We can not expect to receive joy from God if we are refusing to live in obedience.
- Joy comes because God chooses love
Obeying God is not only required, but it is also good for us. God gave us His commands so that we could have abundant, joy filled life. We experience joy when we realize that His love and truth are better than anything else we could seek in this world.
- Joy comes so we can express joy
Our joy grows as our relationship with Jesus grows. This means that it should change the way we live and be evident to those around us. Our thoughts, words, and actions should be filled with joy as we choose to live for Christ each day.
Our job as Christians is to glorify God because He is the only source of joyful life. Let’s choose to abide in Christ today by embracing both the responsibility of obeying Him and the privilege of living in joy.
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