“Jesus is the source of joy for He is joy.”
Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – January 1, 2023
You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound. Psalm 4:7
Oh, the news! I hate to admit it, but in 2022, I allowed myself to get sucked into the negativity of it online and on television more than I like. As we enter the new year, no doubt there are already plenty of unpleasant, controversial, and down-right disturbing stories already circulating.
One of my favorite Christmas songs is “Joy to the World.” One thing I love about the title of this precious hymn is that the joy God promises us comes to the world but is not from the world.
The joy Christ promises as we enter a new year originates in Him and is from Him. Pondering this today reminds me to reevaluate where I look for joy.
True joy cannot come from anything worldly. It can only come from Him and from loving what—and who—He loves.
It comes from knowing we are deeply and unconditionally loved.
It comes from knowing we are never alone.
It comes from knowing He has our best interest in mind amid uncertainty and worldly chaos.
It comes from sharing the love He has given us with others.
It comes from knowing this world is not our home but that our true home is with Him in heaven.
It comes from knowing He is ultimately in control.
It comes from knowing He is working all things for our good and His glory. In the end, all will be well.
It comes from knowing He will make all things new and remake this world into the perfection He intended from the beginning.
If we expect to get true joy and fulfillment from the pleasures of the world, we will be sadly disappointed and find ourselves striving and anxious. Joy doesn’t come from a change in circumstances and a perfect world, but a change in us as we reorient ourselves to find our joy in Him. Jesus is the source of joy for He is joy.
This year, I want to be more intentional to spend more time with Jesus, the Joy-giver and stay away from the things of the world that destroy my joy (like negative news that breeds anxiety and fear).
Joy to the world, and joy to you, friend!
“Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his dwelling place” (1 Chronicles 16:27).
Prayer
You are so awesome, Lord! You are joy! You are light! Help me stay close to you this year and stay away from the things in the world that take away my joy. Amen.
Application
Ask yourself the following questions: What is true joy? How is it different than being happy? Where or what do I turn to to find joy? How can I best be a joy bringer to the world? Using a Bible concordance, look up scriptures that include the word “joy.”
Related Reading
John 15:11; John 16:22; Psalm 5:11
Worship Resource
Will Reagan: You Are Joy
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