But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. Galatians 5: 22 NIV

“The power of joy is never-ending for God’s children. Although not one fruit of the spirit is more important than another, joy enables us to experience the others in the way that Jesus did.” 

JOY brings meaning to life. It brings life to life. Joy is a connection to God. “Happiness is only achievable on earth, while joy is spiritual and only achievable through the love of Christ.” The Bible says, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” John 15:11 To obtain JOY we must receive Christ and follow Him. 

JOY comes as we experience what happens when we serve God and love one another. When we receive the love of Christ, it nurtures our souls as we welcome the reward of a grateful heart, share the Good News and strive to help others embrace the JOY of Jesus too.  

“God promises JOY.  It is something we must embrace with thankfulness. Some will say, “I deserve to be happy” but God doesn’t work that way. He doesn’t promise happiness. He longs for us to receive gifts from the Holy Spirit, pray with belief and welcome the LOVE of His faithfulness with gladness.   

In trying times, JOY sustains us as we surrender burdens and cling to God’s promises. He helps us remember we are valued and loved. JOY comes in PEACE that passes all understanding and the welcoming of mercy and grace. It makes fruit of the Spirit even more meaningful as we become aware that JOY is eternal. 

When we pray in Jesus’ name, He helps us recognize we’re not alone in the choices we make to draw closer to God, welcome His faithfulness and journey where He wants us to go. Stepping in FAITH will set the stage to welcome JOY. We must humble our hearts, glorify God with gladness and ready our souls to welcome gratitude. 

"Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.” – 1 Peter 1:8

Isn’t it time to welcome JOY and experience the fullness of Christ? In this season of change, we will be blessed if we trust God to guide and provide. As we draw closer to Him, the JOY of Jesus will bless our hearts forever. Isn’t it time to let Him lead you in the presence of peace? 

“You make known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.” Psalm 16:11

Dear God, thank you for helping us understand what it means to be faithfully full and filled with the JOY of Jesus. Thank you for what He has done for each one of us. We’re so grateful for gifts from the Holy Spirit that nurture our souls and draw us closer to YOU. Help us remember JOY lasts forever and provides everything we need to give You the glory in ALL things. Thank you, Lord. Help us never stop reflecting the light of Christ. May it humble the hearts of those who need to know how to be filled with gratitude. And may it remind us to LOVE YOU even more… Amen