The Joy of the Lord: A Source of Strength and Connection

The Joy of the Lord: A Source of Strength and Connection

November 9

In the middle of this heart-to-heart with God, where we've been sharing declarations and making some deep connections, it just hit me: the joy of the Lord? That's undoubtedly where my strength comes from. It's like this light bulb moment, you know? And then, this scripture pops into my head, the one that says I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). And that strength? It's all tied up with the joy the Lord gives.

I keep hearing it in my mind, like a little anthem: "the joy of the Lord is my strength." It's like Paul cheering us on in another scripture, telling us to "rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4). That's the key, isn't it? Rejoicing in the Lord is what makes us strong. So, there I am, feeling this deep sense of gratitude, just thanking God for this incredible connection. And as I reflect on where my strength comes from—the joy of the Lord—I'm reminded of that wisdom in Ecclesiastes 4:12 about a threefold cord not easily breaking. It's like these scriptures are weaving together, forming this unbreakable cord of strength.

Then, there's this beautiful thing about God confirming His word with signs and wonders (Mark 16:20). As I dive into His Word, speak it out, and connect with it, the joy becomes this tangible confirmation. It's not just strength; it's a validation of all the promises in His word, and I'm looking forward to even more joyful Word confirmations, laughing in the face of challenges as I see people healed, prospered, and blessed. Talking about communion with God through His word, it's like an incredible joyful learning experience. The word, it's like honey in the rock (Psalm 19:7-11)—sweet and strong, giving us the spiritual nourishment needed, enlightening are eyes! Then, the psalmist talks about finding a strong tower in God (Proverbs 18:10). Picture it like this tower filled with joy, and that joy, because we have made the connection between strength and joy, is the strong tower we run into. It's a core part of our strength. I can't help but express gratitude and keep acknowledging the joy of the Lord—it's a fortifying spiritual foundation.

Remembering Samson's strength, it's like a vivid illustration of what the joy of the Lord can do (because of the joy strength connection). Knowing I can achieve anything because of this Godly joy which turns life into this praise-filled decree: I'm grateful for the ability that in Christ we can do all things (Phillipians 4:13), from raising the dead to healing the sick — found in the strength from the joy of the Lord. And let's not forget, joy is a fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22). It's a heaven sent gift that transforms us. I marvel at this joy-filled realization — it's an awesome awareness, a wellspring of strength. Rejoicing in the Lord isn't just a source of strength; it's a promise, especially when one feels weak. His strength kicks in, as we acknowledge it, just when we need it most.

Wrapping it up, there's this overwhelming joyful gratitude for God's Word, the divine connections, and the assurance that He's holding everything together (Colossians 1:17). The joy in this connection with God becomes the heartbeat, symbolizing strength, confirmation, and an unshakable link to His love for us. This conversation about joy captures the essence of finding our strength when we rejoice in our Lord — a transformative power that should be realized by all believers.