The fruit of the Spirit is what happens when the Holy Spirit dwells in a believer.
Main Text: Isaiah 61:1-11
Watchword: For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17) NKJV
Joy expresses God’s influence on earth (Romans 14:17) and also joy is the natural reaction to the work of God, whether promised or fulfilled. The joy of the Lord in our life is independent of circumstances.
- The joy of salvation: Our greatest reason to be joyful is that God wants to save us and spend eternity with us. Nothing is better than this. (Luke 15:7)
- The joy of God’s presence: The Holy Spirit draws us to God, in whose presence we can know true joy. Without the Holy Spirit, no one would seek God. (Psalm 16:11)
- The joy of deliverance: When God sets someone free, rejoicing is in order. (1 Samuel 2:1)
- The joy of spiritual maturity: As the Holy Spirit works in us to bear more fruit, we become confident in God’s promises and rejoice in our walk with Him and with other believers. (John 15:11)
It is only fellowship with God that can make our joy complete (1 John 1:4). Possessing joy is a choice. We choose whether to value God’s work, presence, and promises in our lives. When we yield to the Spirit of God, He opens our eyes to God’s grace around us and fills us with joy. (Romans 15:13). True peace and joy are part of our new nature in Christ.
Confession: Heavenly Father, thank you for working in my life. Fill me with Your overwhelming joy as I follow Your direction and guidance doing Your will.
Prayer: Oh Lord, guide us to greater depths of joy as Your joy and peace radiate our lives.
Additional reading: Psalms 68:3, Isaiah 51:11, Philippians 3:9
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