“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.”
Psalm 28:7
You may have come to realize in your life that happiness depends on circumstances, but joy is an ongoing condition. Happiness depends on what happens at the moment, while joy looks at the big picture. I was happy the first time my wife smiled at me, but it was a joyful day when she agreed to marry me. Holding a baby makes me happy; holding my own children brought me joy. There have been rough spots in our marriage and in our parenting, but we still have joy if we see that God uses it to build our character and strengthen our dependence on Him.
The angel of Advent brought good news of great joy. But this did not mean that we would never again know pain or difficulty or frustration. Those still certainly are found in and along with joy. With Christ’s advent began a new chapter in God’s dealings with the world.
Jesus came to save us from sin and death, changing and renewing every aspect of our lives. Instead of living in guilt and fear, we can live in peace and hope that bring lasting joy rather than passing happiness.
The angel of Advent brought good news of great joy. But this did not mean that we would never again know pain or difficulty or frustration. Those still certainly are found in and along with joy. With Christ’s advent began a new chapter in God’s dealings with the world.
Jesus came to save us from sin and death, changing and renewing every aspect of our lives. Instead of living in guilt and fear, we can live in peace and hope that bring lasting joy rather than passing happiness.
Scripture Focus
Luke 2:8-14
Insight
“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)
Bible In A Year
- Daniel 11-12
- Proverbs 10
- Hebrews 13
