The Promise of Joy

The Bible does not promise us an easy life or that we will sail smoothly through every season. In fact, Jesus told His disciples. "In the world you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." John 16:33b

However, the Bible shows us that we have a promise of joy. The joy of the Lord is a source of strength (see Nehemiah 8:10), so it is important to understand that joy is not only a possibility, it is a promise from God. Because it is a promise, the joy of the Lord is always available to us. That's great news because having joy helps us endure difficulty, live gratefully, and stand firm through trials. We have this joy in and through Christ Jesus.

As you Write the Scriptures why not turn them into daily declarations to renew your mind to the promise, power and purpose of joy in Scripture?

Psalm 21:6

For you make him most blessed forever; you make him glad with the joy of your presence.

Isaiah 12:3

With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.

Psalm 126:5-6

Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

Psalm 119:111

Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart.

Proverbs 10:28

The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish.

Psalm 68:3

But the righteous shall be glad; they shall exult before God; they shall be jubilant with joy!

Romans 15:13

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

All Scripture is taken from the English Standard Version (ESV) or English Standard Version Anglicised (ESVUK)

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