Joy

July 6, 2022
Midweek Study with Pastor Edith
(Gal.5:22-23), Proverbs 17:22

This week my husband pulled out of the fruit bowl of the 9 Fruits of the Spirit the fruit of Joy. I read recently that there are over 200 references to joy, joyfulness, cheerfulness etc… in the bible and that brings a smile to my face . It can sometimes be challenging to maintain a joyful spirit when we hear and see so much trouble and pain that so many are facing. Still, I hear the Savior say; “Find in me thine all in all” (From the hymn Jesus Paid it All).

Proverbs 17:22 simply says; “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones”.

Perhaps this is the best prescription we could fill when it comes to dealing with the troubles we have to face in our world, in our communities, in our churches, in our homes, and most importantly in ourselves. In point of fact it has been said that a positive attitude and a good sense of humor can be very healing, even for physical ailments.

Another way I enjoy joy is in sharing from God’s word about how much he loves us all. Sometimes, I get carried away when using a funny illustration in my sermons. I can’t help it, God is good and people are funny. Just about the time I think I have gone too far, I read this about a marvelous clergyman whom I admire greatly, his name is Charles Spurgeon. I read where a woman in his congregation approached him to admonish him for his “too frequent expressions of joy and use of humor in his preaching. To which he replied, ‘madam, you should give me a medal for holding it back as much as I do’” (pg. 39 of Nine Fruits of the Spirit –Joy, by Robert Strand).

So, the next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and troubled, try taking a breath and remember; Jesus knows your every weakness and can calm every fear. Thank him and allow him to put the joy, joy, joy down in your heart.

AMEN