194 - We Have Unquenchable Joy

Our joy in the Lord is unquenchable -- it cannot be extinguished. In the Old Testament, the word "joy" means "gladness of heart" or "to delight the mind." The Hebrew word comes from the root word meaning "to shine" or "be bright." People who had "the joy of the LORD" were known to bring light into dark situations. It was a mental exercise. In the New Testament, joy takes on another aspect. Joy comes not only from the mind, but from our born-again spirit -- it's a fruit of the Spirit. It should not be affected by circumstances. However, our joy is affected by our circumstances and when it is, we have help. If you go to the Word of God; our joy is restored. In our Christian life, joy is from an outpouring of the Holy Spirit verses only being a mental exercise. This joy we have is unquenchable, just as the Holy Spirit is unquenchable. The world didn't give it, so the world can't take it away. But Satan will try to steal your joy. The apostle Paul exhorted, "Do not quench the Spirit" (I Thessalonians 5:19, NKJV). We can quench the Holy Spirit, thereby quenching our joy. We can even quench other people's spirits by what we do and say. But when a Christian is strong in the Spirit, they'll use the shield of faith ". . . to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one." Jesus defeated the works of the Devil. Jesus' presence produces joy. King David knew this: "You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore" (Psalms 16:11, NKJV). In his sermon on Pentecost, Peter quotes David: "For David says concerning Him: 'I foresaw the LORD always before my face, For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken . . . For You will not leave my soul in Hades, Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption. You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in Your presence'" (Acts 2:25, 27-28, NKJV). We have defeated death through Jesus Christ. That is a major reason for our joy. Selah!

Let me hear from you - Charles

https://www.aboundinglove.org/

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