What’s Your Greatest Joy?
By Dean Collins
I have no greater joy than _____.
Fill in the blank. A few readers might have one word that comes to mind. Others may insist there are several things, and they couldn’t pick just one thing that is their greatest joy. My wife loves me, but I doubt she would fill in the blank with my name. And I am okay with that. Now, she might put the names of our nine grandchildren! And I probably wouldn't disagree!
Joy is associated with happiness in a broad sense, but it includes something more permanent and abiding than just a happy moment after a happy circumstance. There are numerous things and activities that might bring about some happiness: the growth of an investment, securing the new job, good health, a victory by your favorite team, and one hundred other things we could name. All of these may bring smiles to our faces and can even change our moods for a few hours or even days, but they might not bring abiding joy or our greatest joy.
The topic of joy is mentioned frequently in scripture, and heading into advent we will all be singing carols and opening cards that reference a biblical basis for joy. The birth of Jesus is certainly an event that brought and brings joy to the world.
The apostle John said that he rejoiced when he heard from others that a church leader named Gaius was walking in the truth of Christ. In fact, it is in this context that John broadened his thoughts and declared, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”
As a college president, I get excited when I see young people and older people pursuing education to better equip themselves for life and to prepare for jobs and careers. But I experience real joy when I watch them discover that God loves them, sent Jesus to die for them, and wants to use them to advance his kingdom throughout the world. And of course, once you make that discovery, you can only succeed in accomplishing the will of God if you continue to walk in the truth.
I sometimes get teary when I hand out diplomas to graduates who have sacrificed and overcome great obstacles in order to get their college degree. But when I watch these graduates walking in and walking out the truth of the gospel in their work, their families, and their communities, I feel great joy!
Watching someone walking in the truth is evidence that they have experienced the grace of God and are on mission with God. When we see our children, grandchildren, coworkers, friends and family walking in the truth of Jesus, there really is no greater joy!
Father, today we pray that you would use us to encourage someone in their journey of faith. Lead us to introduce Jesus to those who have yet to discover how much he loves them. Use us today to encourage a brother or sister who is struggling to understand or to follow you. Thank you for your promise that when we abide in your love we will experience your joy. Filled with your joy, direct us to help someone today walk in your truth and advance your kingdom today. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Your Time with God’s Word
3 John 1:2-4; John 15:9-11, 17:13 ESV
Photo by Jacqueline Munguía on Unsplash
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