May 21, 2023
The joy of the Lord is your strength! Nehemiah 8:10b
“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.” Psalm 5:11
“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Psalm 16:11.
“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” Psalm 28:7
How do You Find Joy in the Hard Places of life? I am sure you would agree that life can present various challenging and difficult situations. Some of you have faced the death or unexpected death of a loved one or experiencing other forms of significant loss. In the current economic climate, some are experiencing financial challenges, overwhelming debt can lead to stress, uncertainty, and a sense of despair. There are those who are facing serious illnesses, chronic health conditions, or debilitating injuries which can be physically and emotionally demanding, requiring strength and resilience.
The hard places of life can also precipitate marital conflicts, family disputes, or broken relationships/friendships, which can cause emotional pain and distress. Some are dealing with traumatic events such as abuse, violence, accidents, or war, which can leave lasting emotional scars and require significant healing and support. National disasters, as well as personal failures or setbacks related to your career, education, or personal goals, can be discouraging, often making it difficult to maintain a positive outlook.
Then there are the day-by-day interruptions, frustrations, and irritations that life often presents to distract us, trying to steal our joy. In the face of all of the hard places can at times create an atmosphere for a spiritual crisis, walking through a season of doubt, and questioning your faith, can be deeply perturbing and challenging.
Yes, it can be overwhelming! So, the question remains, “How do you find joy in the hard places of life?” Let’s be clear, the chaos and conflict in the world today is because of sin and it will not change until people turn to God! Again, how do you find the strength to keep moving forward in this journey called life?
In the unexpected traumatic loss of my husband, I found peace and comfort in the Word of God. John 1:1b says, and the Word was God. His Word is life and has the power to give strength, comfort, and deliverance in the turbulence of life! Standing on the promises of God and reading the Psalms gave me strength. Psalm 32:8 which I often quote, became my anchor: The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.” (NLT). Also, Psalms 16:8. “I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me.” (NLT)
I agree with Nehemiah, when he said, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” I am a living witness that the Word of God can bring you joy. I believe that is one of the reasons John wrote his first epistle. In 1 John 1:4 he says, “And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.” He did not say you would be half-full, but full! Reading and studying God’s Word ought to bring joy into your life. As a Believer in Christ, if it doesn’t, something is radically wrong! God has a standing invitation! You can go to God in prayer and say, “Lord, I want your Word to bring joy into my life. Whatever cloud there is, I want it removed. Whatever it is that is blocking me from experiencing YourJoy Father when I read and study Your Word, please remove it from my life and give me Joy.”
The Apostle Paul is a Great Example of Finding JOY in the Hard Places of Life! We can be Joyful Despite our Circumstances.
The Apostle Paul was in prison, and he was reminding the church to rejoice. Paul’s attitude teaches us an important lesson ~ our inner attitudes do not have to reflect our outward circumstances. He was full of joy because he knew that no matter what happened to him, Jesus Christ was with him. Several times in his letter to the Christians at Philippi, He urged them to be joyful. It’s easy to get discouraged about unpleasant circumstances or to take unimportant events too seriously. Being joyful may mean looking at life from the right perspective.
Joy is a tremendous source of strength. When you are experiencing hurt, sorrow, and pain, yes, it is a real challenge to be joyful. If a person is down and discouraged, almost any obstacle or hardship is enough to incapacitate them. Solomon says, “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22).
Joy is a powerful weapon. A person suffering from a physical ailment or pain but who is filled with joy will survive much better than a discouraged person with the same condition. Joy can even make a person forget his pain and limitations. In fact, it is better to have joy in suffering than despair in ease and luxury. “Emotional energy” is extremely powerful. This is why coaches give motivational speeches to their players. A person who is “up” will accomplish far more than a person who is “down.” Joy provides strength.
How Does Joy Effect The Body? ~ I always stand amazed at the Complexity of God’s creation!
Because Joy is a positive emotion it can have various effects on the body. When experiencing joy, several physiological and biochemical responses occur. Here are some of the key aspects of the physical and medical response to joy:
~ Neurotransmitters: Joy triggers the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins in the brain. Dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward, while serotonin contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being. Endorphins act as natural painkillers and can produce a sense of euphoria.
~ Hormonal Changes: Joy can influence the release of hormones in the body. For example, the hormone oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” is released during joyful experiences and is associated with social bonding and increased feelings of trust and connection.
~ Cardiovascular Response: Joyful emotions can lead to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. The activation of the sympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the “fight-or-flight” response, can be triggered by intense joy, causing a temporary rise in cardiovascular activity.
~ Respiratory Changes: Joy can also affect your breathing. During joyful moments, respiration may become more rapid or shallow due to increased sympathetic nervous system activation. Some people may even experience shortness of breath or breathlessness as a result.
~ Immune System Boost: Joyful and positive emotions, including joy, have been associated with a boost in the immune system. Research suggests that experiencing joy can increase the production of antibodies and enhance the activity of immune cells, potentially improving overall immune function.
~ Muscle Relaxation: Joyful emotions can lead to the relaxation of muscles in the body. When experiencing joy, people may notice a decrease in muscle tension, a feeling of lightness, and a more relaxed posture.
Specific physiological responses to joy can vary from person to person. The intensity and duration of joy, as well as individual differences, can influence the degree to which these physical and medical responses occur.
How Can JOY Become a Distinguishing Aspect of Your Life?
- JOY Comes From Being in the Presence of God! When the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law noted in Galatians 5:22-23. Joy is lasting because it is based on God’s presence within us.
- JOY Grows out of Real Worship! Worship involves both celebration and confession. The God of the Bible encourages joy! God does not intend for religion to be only meditation and introspection. He also wants us to celebrate. Serious reflection and immediate confession of sin are essential and should be balanced by celebrating who God is and what he has done for us. “I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth shouts his praises! My body rests in safety.” Psalm 16:8-9
- JOY Comes From Having The Holy Spirit! The fruit of the Spirit is the spontaneous work of the Holy Spirit in us. The Spirit produces these character traits that are found in Christ. They are the by-products of Christ’s control-we can’t obtain them by trying to get them without His help. If we want the fruit of the Spirit to grow in us, we must join our life to His, John 15:4-5. We must know Him, love Him, remember Him, and imitate Him. As a result, we will fulfill the intended purpose of the law to love God and our neighbors. Which of these qualities do you want the Spirit to produce in you? Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again-rejoice! Philippians 4:4.
Rx: A JOYFUL HEART: In the Word of God, finding joy in the midst of storms and difficult circumstances is often rooted in the Believer’s trust and faith in God. Here are some biblical principles and examples that can help guide you in finding joy in the midst of a storm:
- Trust in God’s Sovereignty: Recognize that God is in control of all things, including the storms of life. Trusting in His sovereignty allows you to find peace and joy, knowing that He is ultimately in charge.
- Maintain an Eternal Perspective: Remember that the storms we face in this life are temporary, but our hope and joy are found in the eternal promises of God. Focus on the bigger picture of God’s plan for your life and His faithfulness.
- Seek God’s Presence: Draw near to God through prayer, worship, and studying His Word. Spending time in His presence allows you to find comfort, strength, and joy even in the midst of trials.
- Rejoice in God’s Promises: Meditate on the promises of God found in Scripture. The Bible is filled with assurances of God’s love, faithfulness, and provision. Rejoicing in these promises can bring joy and hope in difficult times.
- Count Your Blessings: Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by focusing on the blessings and goodness of God, even in the midst of the storm. Recognize the ways God has already been faithful and provided for you and give thanks for His grace and mercy.
- Lean on the Support of Fellow Believers: Surround yourself with a community of believers who can offer support, encouragement, and prayer during challenging times. Sharing your burdens with others can lighten the load and bring joy through fellowship.
- Serve Others: Look for opportunities to serve and bless others, even in the midst of your own storm. By focusing on the needs of others, you can experience the joy that comes from selflessness and the fulfillment of God’s command to love one another.
FATHER GOD: Thank You for Your Word that gives us clear instructions on how to live and glorify You! Help us to always remember the joy of the Lord is the gladness of heart that comes from knowing You, abiding in Your Presence, and being filled with the Your Spirit. Help us to remember that our hope and joy are found in Your eternal promises as we understand the future You have for us. This we pray, in the Precious, Powerful, and Preeminent Name of Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord, Amen!
