Join in the Joy
Through the years, I have frequently preached about joy. It is more than an emotion (although it includes emotion); rather, it is a settled attitude, a stable and sturdy approach to life that focuses us on the things that matter now and forever. Joy is much greater and much more powerful than happiness, which is event or circumstance driven. There is nothing wrong with happiness. It is certainly better than unhappiness. Also, we have different personalities. For example, my wife is happy-go-lucky. Of course, she has every reason to be, being married to me. However, not everyone can be married to me. We need something more substantial than happiness; that something is joy. (I will be using this opening paragraph for each of the brief messages in this series. The following material will change daily.)
Yesterday, we considered Hebrews 12:2 as a New Testament example of the joy that is a blessed part of the character of God and that is therefore demonstrated in the acts of God. Another such reference is found in Romans 14:17. This verse speaks specifically of the joy of God the Holy Spirit. Note that “righteousness” and “peace” are also mentioned, reminding us that the attributes of God never stand alone; all of God’s characteristics (often called perfections) work together perfectly. Note also that the Holy Spirit is fully God. Often, Christians have confusing notions about the Holy Spirit. One helpful remedy is to frequently call Him by the title God the Holy Spirit. He is not a force; He is God. Thus, the Triune Godhead – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – join in joy together, One God in Three Persons sharing eternal joy. May we communicate this joy to our God and to each other, for when we do, we are following the impeccable example of the Trinity.