Of all the gifts God gives His children, joy is perhaps the one closest to heaven on earth.

 

Who isn’t aware just how wonderful it feels to experience true joy? It is as if the Lord has freed a prisoner.

 

When American POWs returned from captivity in Vietnam, the looks on their faces as they emerged from the planes carrying them to freedom…well, no one will ever forget that!

 

Psalm 16:9 says, “Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure.”

 

Scripture tells us that we don’t escape trouble in this life, but that for the believer, eternal joy waits for us, and the Holy Spirit gives us joy in our daily walk in the here and now.

 

It’s also ours for the taking—to reach up and pick this fruit that feeds our souls. Sometimes simply making the choice to embrace a joyful spirit is the key to having a blessed day.

 

Let’s pray.

 

Lord, you did not create us to be defeated or to be sad. Father, your Spirit brings joy in big and small moments, sustaining us for our journey. Thank you for joy. In Jesus’ name, amen.