Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit
Romans 15:13
It is hard to be hopeful when we wake up to a world that feels like it is on the brink of destruction. There is so much darkness, and so much distress. Nations are in disarray, the COVID pandemic is still raging, millions of people are in dire need, the climate is changing, and fires are burning, greed for power and wealth at any cost is manifesting across the globe and cries for mercy are rising.
And right there in the midst of all this junk; in the midst of all this stuff, is God’s incredible joy. It is the gift that renders hope in the darkness, and one that we must choose to receive. For God calls us not to look at how big the PROBLEM is but to reflect on HOW BIG OUR GOD IS. Even in times like these, believers can drink from God’s fountain of joy, his Holy word. And his word has power to instill peace and hope by the power of his Holy Spirit.
Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892), the late Reformed Baptist preacher, once said, “There is a marvelous medicinal power in joy. Most medicines are distasteful; but this, which is the best of all medicines, is sweet to the taste, and comforting to the heart. This blessed joy is very contagious. One dolorous spirit brings a kind of plague into the house; one person who is wretched seems to stop all the birds from singing wherever he goes . . . [But] the grace of joy is contagious. Holy joy will oil the wheels of your life’s machinery. Holy joy will strengthen you for your daily labor. Holy joy will beautify you and give you an influence over the lives of others.”
As you begin this new week, may your days be filled with contagious, holy joy. May it beautify your spirit and give you Kingdom influence over the lives of those you encounter. Have a blessed week and may the God of all hope fill you with his joy!
Father in heaven, fill me with your joy and peace and help me believe that your plans for me are for good and not for destruction. Give me the strength I need to tarry a little while longer. I choose joy in spite of everything going on around me. I choose to believe in your promises concerning me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.