Memorable Moments

     Some of our most memorable moments include deep suffering. The moment you lost a loved one, faced a diagnosis, lost a job, lost a relationship. The list goes on and on. Did you know, with Jesus, we can never lose our spiritual joy?

     The joy of the Lord remains throughout our lives, no matter the circumstances. You may believe you have lost it, but it is there. His hope is eternal. His love is forever. Even through suffering, He brings good. He renews our faith. He surrounds us with people to love us. He gives us wisdom to share. Here are Scriptures written by James and by Peter that remind us of the value in trials.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith-of great worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire-may result in praise, glory and honor when Christ Jesus is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6-7

     We do have a choice to choose joy. Not easy. The joy of the Lord does not mean we will not grieve. We do. It doesn’t mean life will be easy. It isn’t. But we have Jesus. That changes everything. Allow His joy to replace bitterness, anger and sorrow. Allow Him to comfort you and rejoice.

     As Paul sat in prison, ready to face death, he wrote these words.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again. Rejoice! Philippians 4:4

Lord,

Your joy is deep and unending. Give us an abundant share of it today. Even though we will go through trials in our lives, You are faithful.

In Jesus name,

Amen