“For the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Nehemiah 8:10
Stop and muse for a moment on the joy of the Lord. Consider His gift of Spirit-inspired fruit of joy. His oft-repeated command was, “Rejoice!” Fullness of joy is to be found in Him. Finally, for the joy that was set before Him, Jesus endured His cross. In other words, if you’re looking for joy, it can only be found in one place or, that is, one Person.
Now place yourself back in time. The sun is warm on your shoulders, and through the golden glow of history in the making, watch this Lord of Joy. He laughs as He holds a neighbor’s newborn baby. He smiles while bouncing a three-year-old on His knee. He tousles the hair of a rowdy little boy. Picture His joy to watch a puppy at play, to hear a funny story, to taste a hot and savory stew. Feel His joy when the disciples listened and obeyed. Think of the joy that seized Him at the sight of a glorious sunset… and the joy to know that He created it. And finally, Jesus’ joy at seeing His Father’s dream fulfilled.
When you meditate on God’s smile, His joy will be yours.
It is not possible to always be happy. It is possible to always have the joy of the Lord. Some have described it as a calm-centeredness that tickles at the edges. It’s a solid assurance that laughs if given the chance. It is unwavering confidence that can’t help but look on the bright side. My friend Tim Hansel once said that joy is peace dancing.
Think of all the things that make up the joy of the Lord, and your smile can’t help but last.
If I need a reason to smile today, Lord, it will be found in You!
