Bearing Joy That Glorifies God

      We want to honor God by bearing fruit that glorifies Him (John 15:8; Galatians 5:22-23).  As such, we have learned to love.  But we must also learn to bear joy that glorifies God.

      While we should take our service to God very seriously, we should be the most joy-filled people on earth.  No, this does not mean that life is one continual, carefree party.  It does mean that our destiny, security and self-worth are anchored in something which cannot be moved.  Therefore, we have an abiding happiness that cannot be taken away, no matter what happens to or around us.

      Bearing joy does not mean Christians never cry.  The one verse we all have memorized (even if we cannot find it) is John 11:35, “Jesus wept.”

      Bearing joy does not mean Christians never sorrow because of life’s events.  Paul explained that if Epaphroditus had died, he would have had sorrow upon sorrow (Philippians 2:27).

      Bearing joy does not mean Christians are carefree.  Paul said he had daily cares for the churches (II Corinthians 11:28).

      Rather, bearing joy that glorifies God means we rejoice when events or actions which glorify God take place.  The angels in heaven rejoice when one sinner repents (Luke 15:9-10).  The apostles rejoiced when they suffered for Christ’s sake (Acts 5:41).  The eunuch rejoiced when he had been forgiven (Acts 8:39).  The Gentiles rejoiced when they received the encouraging letter from the church in Jerusalem (Acts 15:31).  John rejoiced when he heard that some of those he had taught remained faithful (3 John 3).

      Keep in mind what we learned about love, however.  Those who bear love that glorifies God do not rejoice in iniquity, but in truth (I Corinthians 13:6).

      Bearing joy that glorifies God also means we have an abiding joy that cannot be taken away even during times in which we may weep, sorrow or have concerns (John 16:22).  This joy keeps us from being overcome by the temporary sorrows and cares.  It helps us look forward and keep moving, instead of falling into depression and despair.

      I Peter 1:3-9 described this joy.  This deep, abiding joy is anchored on our faith that Jesus lived, died and was resurrected for us.  It is anchored on God’s promise of an inheritance reserved in heaven for us.  This joy helps us take everything in this life in stride, recognizing its temporal nature as we look forward with joy inexpressible to the eternal life purchased for us by the grace and blood of Christ.

      If Christ did this for us, how can we do anything but be joyful?  Throughout this week, despite what happens, remember this anchor and bear joy that glorifies God.

Edwin L. Crozier