Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
The MacArthur Study Bible: “Joy. A happiness based on unchanging divine promises and eternal spiritual realities. It is the sense of well-being experienced by one who knows all is well between himself and the Lord. Joy is not the result of favorable circumstances, and even occurs when those circumstances are the most painful and severe. Joy is a gift from God, and as such, believers are not to manufacture it but to delight in the blessing they already possess.”
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:8 “Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.”
Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”
John 15:8-11 “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”
Since the fruit of true joy is not something we can create, but rather something the Holy Spirit bestows, let us use this week to study some of God’s promises and look for things to be thankful for.
May we rejoice in the Lord, counting ourselves blessed that He has bestowed salvation and lasting forgiveness on underserving sinners, and let us show our gratitude by seeking to follow our Lord’s commands.
“When we walk with the Lord
In the light of his Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way.
While we do His good will,
He abides with us still,
And with all who will trust and obey.
“Trust and obey,
For there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus
Then to trust and obey.”
*John Henry Sammis
The Misplaced Mom 
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