Joy

I've been thinking a lot about Joy over the last few days.  What does it really mean?  What is its source?  Can it possibly be something that you have all the time?  The Merriam-Webster dictionary says that it is “the emotion evoked by well being, success or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires; a state of happiness or a source or cause of delight.”

When I listen to people talk I get the idea that for many of them, their joy is based on a dream of an abundance of financial resources in the bank.  For others it might be that special vacation away from the busyness of the daily routine.  If you believe what the commercials on TV put out, then joy is anything from a good smoke, to a cold beer, a delicious meal, an expensive car, new clothes, close friends and family or the newest and fastest cell phone!

So what is it?  Do all the “things” I mentioned really bring true joy?  Yesterday we celebrated Easter.  It was fun to listen to the kids in our class as they excitedly talked about all that they were going to do and receive during their celebrations with their family and or friends.  My wife and I had a rather quiet day.  Both our families had their own plans so we watched our beloved Giants blow a 6-0 lead and lose to Arizona.  We then took a short siesta, jumped in the car and took a leisurely ride in the country, purchased some burgers, watched a fun movie and hit the sack.  Not what I would call a normal Easter, but sometimes you just got to go with the flow! 

If I was basing my joy on having a typical Easter dinner and fellowship with family, I would have been sorely disappointed!  So what should I base my joy on?  If one was to combine the statements in Nehemiah 8:10 with James 1:17 it would say “the joy of the Lord is your strength… with whom there is no variableness nor shadow of turning” (KJV - MKJV) That would seem to indicate that no matter what is going on in your life, our source of constant joy should be found in the Lord.  So whether you’re feeling up or down, or your wallet is stuffed with one hundred dollar bills or just a few with George Washington’s picture on them, your level of joy, if founded on the Lord and the truth of His word, should be the same!

That knowledge kind of takes away a lot of the rollercoaster affects of life doesn’t it!  I enjoy a good roller coaster ride occasionally, but I don’t want to live riding the rails at the amusement park!  We went to bed last night with a smile on our lips and a feeling of contentment in our hearts.  How about you?  We’ll explore the subject of joy a little more this week.  So, have a great day, let His joy shine through you and laugh aloud as those you associate with give you that look that seems to say “what have they been doing?  Tune into His Word and keep asking yourself… “What am I expecting today?”