YOUR JOY LEVEL
09th Jul 2014
Being health conscious and constantly checking various things is becoming popular these days. We seem to know about our blood pressure and whether we are short of vitamins; and some even know their cholesterol level! But when did you last check your “joy level”?
If you were to have met Jesus during His time here on earth, you would have immediately seen someone who was full of joy, it was prophesied that He would be “Anointed with the oil of joy.” Jesus also believed that His disciples should know and experience a constant flow of joy. In John 15:11, He said, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.”
Joy flows out of our connection with Jesus and the Father, it is not dependant on circumstances. However, our enemy is always trying to rob us of joy, and when that happens, we also loose our energy and sense of well-being.
So what are we to do? Every day we need to declare, “This is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it!” Start the day with praise and thanksgiving for all the blessings God has poured out on you. Take time to remember all His care and protection over many years. Acknowledge how the Lord has provided and answered your prayers so many times. Take your eyes off any trials and difficulties that are trying to dominate your thinking.
The Israelites had rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem, and the people had gathered to praise God and hear from his Word, as they listened they were both thankful, but also convicted of their failings. Nehemiah would not let them wallow in self pity, and gave them this strong command, “Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)
So check your “joy level” today and take the spiritual vitamins that will keep your joy topped up - and that “joy from heaven” will give you all the strength and energy you need!
by Charles Sibthorpe
