And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10-11 

Joy is a cheerful delight and rejoicing that comes from God. We should especially rejoice in what God has done and is doing. If you are frustrated and joyless, then you can get your joy back by looking to Jesus. Think about all the promises that Christ fulfilled. Think about all that God has done in providing salvation for you.

Because of the joy that Christ had for us, He suffered for us. Hebrews 12:2-3  Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

We can rejoice in Christ and the salvation He has provided for us: 1 Peter 1:8-9  Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

We can pray with David: Psalm 51:12  Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

In God’s presence there is immense joy and pleasures for evermore. God is joyful. Psalm 16:11 and Jude 24. This is not just future joy. We can experience this fruit of the Spirit now. Galatians 5:22-23.

Nehemiah 8:10 …for the joy of the LORD is your strength.   

Let's keep a joyful spirit about us this Christmas season and throughout the new year!

Ron Cox – Director of HOPE Ministry