When things are going well, we can feel upbeat, positive and elated. When hardships come, we can sink into sorrow, anxiety or depression. But true joy goes beyond the rolling waves of how we may or may not feel in the swirling circumstances of life.
Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11 ESV). These things He mentioned in the previous verse are:
- staying close to God
- remaining in Christ
- bear fruiting
- experience the father’s love
- love one another
- And demonstrate that love by keeping His commandments
True spiritual joy is a powerful force that comes from an abiding, consistent relationship with Jesus Christ. When the very essence of who you are is intertwined with Him, He helps you navigate the challenges living in a fallen world bring without descending into the crippling and exhausting lows or managing the chaos of deceptive highs. The joy of living each day “in Christ” provides you with constant and steady peace.
“Remaining in Christ” means:
- Believing He is God’s Son
- Receiving Him as Savior
- Doing what God asks of you
- Continuing to believe His truth
- Demonstrating His love to others
Finding joy and rest as a result of His peace gives you stability in even the most challenging times.
