Joy... Joy? Joy!

I so enjoy the deep conversations that I'm able to share with very close friends of mine on a regular basis. Our topics run a wide range, but it just so happens that we touched on the topic of joy a few nights ago. Realizing how many of us as Christians miss out on the Joy of the Lord, for more reasons than we can even fathom. Joy is one of those complex things that is part of the mystery of Christ. It is more than just being happy. You can have joy even while you are walking through dark days. Joy is something that I think we should let the world see more often because it is at least one if not the only thing that the unsaved world can see as a difference in us that might attract them to God Almighty. If they see us only as having the same grumblings and problems as they encounter, but don't see a difference in how we handle things, or our inner attitude of dealing with life as it happens, what exactly is it that's different about becoming a Christian that is worth it.

They need to see the joy...
so that they will come closer and wonder about the hope...
and become curious enough to ask about the love...
and then we can explain the sacrifice, the Salvation and the grace.

We need to immerse ourselves in the joy that God has given us and then let that overflow out of us into those lives that come in touch with ours everyday. ("The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks." Luke 6:45). They need to see a difference! I was reminded again today as the radio station I listen to played this simple song by Cheri Keaggy. If you've not heard it, I recommend you call your local station and request it, then sit back and soak it up!

There Is Joy In The Lord
Cheri Keaggy

CHORUS:
There is joy in the Lord,
There is love in His Spirit.
There is hope in the knowledge of Him.
There's a fountain that flows,
Like a river from heaven
Abounding in love to my soul.

VERSE:
All blessing and honor are His,
All glory and power are His.
Let all wisdom and strength be the Lord's in this place.
Let all glory be given to Him.

CHORUS 2:
There is joy in the Lord,
There is love in His Spirit.
There is hope in the knowledge of Him.
There's a fountain I know
Every time I am near it
My heart overflows to the Lord.


Words and Music by Cheri Keaggy© 1992 Sparrow Song (BMI) (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)
CCLI Song ID #1184209