There is an event done on Sundays termed ‘Happy Sunday’ on city streets by a social service organization. The idea is to make people happy, come out of their homes, meet, and greet people. Music, concerts, sports, and entertainment are part of the evening extravaganza. However, when interviewed the very next day, many were not happy. Their happiness was limited to the time that the event was held.
Joy of the Lord: Ezra and Nehemiah were contemporaries. Nehemiah was used by God to rebuild the broken walls of Jerusalem. Ezra read the Law, people listened, and many wept. They felt sorrowful for forsaking the Law. After their repentance, they had the assurance of forgiveness. Hence, they should go eat and drink, for the joy of the Lord is their strength. (Nehemiah 8:10)
Rejoice: Paul writing from prison in Rome could cheer up the believers in Philippi: Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice. (Philippians 4:4) The first few believers of the church who received Paul’s letter knew how Paul rejoiced with Silas in the prison. Their joyful worship paved the way for the jailor (Inspector General of Prisons) and his household to become disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 16:31-34)
Temporal joy: In the world, happiness and joy cannot last forever. Unexpected happenings or accidents could turn happy moments into miserable moments. First, joy because of good health can disappear when a fatal disease attacks the body. Second, the joy of wealth could disappear when there is an earthquake or tsunami, or war. Third, the joy from family relationships could end when there is bereavement or misunderstanding. Fourth, the joy with friends is short-lived or temporary. Five, the joy of accomplishments is also momentary.
In the Lord: The secret and reason for rejoicing, that too always, is the Lord. Only in His Presence is the fullness of joy and eternal pleasure. (Psalms 16:11) The Eternal God, provides us Eternal Joy, in His Presence in the Unshakeable Kingdom. The joy that is in Lord Jesus Christ is granted to the disciples. (John 15:11)
Am I always glad?