Joy In The Holy Spirit

Tuesday, October 7

Romans 14:7 (NKJV)

“For the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

Devotion

Pastor Aaron preached on Sunday about a joy that is immune to the world’s conditions and mindsets. Far beyond feelings, this joy is rooted in the character of the Lord. Today’s scripture refers to joy as a pillar in the kingdom of God. Its origins are in the Holy Spirit. The word ‘joy’ used here is chara (Greek) and it means delight, gladness, and rejoicing. It is the same word for ‘joy’ that is used as a fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22. (love, joy, peace etc.) If we go a little further in the same chapter, verse 25 says, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” That is how this fruit is developed and grown.

Consider the description of the vine and the branches Jesus taught in John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me, you can do nothing.” Jesus is the vine, the source of life flowing to each branch. If we abide (remain and stay connected) in him, we will bear much fruit because his life will flow to and through us. This is a life that is lived in true partnership and union with Christ. Joy is a byproduct of this relationship. A joy that withstands the winds of hardship, negative words, and trials because this fruit is firmly rooted in God.

If we go a little deeper, the joy we have in Christ gives us confidence because it comes from the deep love of the Heavenly Father, who Himself, rejoices over us. “The Lord your God in your midst, the Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17 This is the abiding life in the kingdom of God and joy in the Holy Spirit.

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

I confess I have often focused too much on the outward things like eating and drinking and clothing. Forgive my emphasis on looking good and sounding good rather than being changed on the inside. Help me to seek first Your Kingdom and Your righteousness, so that I may have the righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Pastor Marshall also pointed out that complaining robs joy. By ourselves or in a group, it is easy to fall into dissatisfaction. Think of a recent situation where you complained in your heart or out loud. What could you have been joyful about or grateful for instead? In future situations, consider this and encourage yourself and others to turn the tide from complaining to joy.

Resources

• Watch this short clip,
• Read Philippians 4:4 and make it your anchor scripture this week.