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WE ALL KNOW the value of joy. It alone is the proof that what we have really satisfies the heart. As long as duty, or self-interest, or other motives influence me, no one can know what the object of my pursuit or possession is really worth to me. But when it gives me joy, and they see me delight in it, they know that to me at least it is a treasure. So there is nothing quite so attractive as joy, no preaching so persuasive as the sight of hearts made glad. This makes gladness such a strong element in Christian character. There is no proof of the reality of Gods love and the blessing He bestows, which people so quickly feel the strength of, as when the joy of God overcomes all the trials of life. And for the Christians own welfare, joy is just as indispensable; the joy of the Lord is his strength (see Nehemiah 8:10), and confidence, courage, and patience find their inspiration in joy. With a heart full of joy no work can make us weary and no burden can depress us; God himself is our strength and song. Whether we look backward and see the work He has done, or upward and see the reward He has in the Fathers love that passes knowledge, or forward in anticipation of continual joy experienced as sinners are brought home, His joy is ours. With our feet on Calvary, our eyes on the Fathers face, and our hands helping sinners home, we have His joy as our own. As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing (2 Corinthians 6:10 NKJV): These precious words teach us how the joy of Christ can overrule the sorrow of the world, can make us sing even while we weep, and can maintain in the heart, even when cast down by disappointment or difficulties, a deep consciousness of a joy that is unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8).
(Excerpted from The Andrew Murray Daily Reader in Todays Language, pg. 294)
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