Joy To The World

3 The Lord has done great things for us,

and we are filled with joy.

4 Bring back our captives Lord,

like streams in the Negev.

5 Those who sow with tears

will reap with songs of joy.

6 Those who go out weeping,

carrying seed to sow,

will return with songs of joy,

carrying sheaves with them. (Psalm 126:3-6)

Joy can seem illusive, or feel like another thing to try to have or do. But Jesus came that we would have life abundantly, and joy is a main ingredient of an abundant life. So how do we get it, keep it, and share it?

An attitude of gratitude is key to accessing the joy within. Giving thanks in all circumstances means understanding that even the difficult situations in life will bring us to a place of wholeness. We may not be thankful FOR every situation, but we can be thankful IN every situation knowing that God is working everything out for our eventual good, and God's eternal glory. We have access to great joy by way of gratitude and praise. This is not putting on a happy face, but acknowledging all that God has already done. That should give us hope and joyful anticipation for what is yet to come. Joy to the world.

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not treat prophecies with contempt 21 but test them all; hold on to what is good, 22 reject every kind of evil.

23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. (1 Thes. 5:16-24)