Cultivating a Joyful Heart part 1

If you’re like me, finding the joy of the Lord to be my strength can be difficult at times, especially when I’m in a busy season of life or just in a season of needing to trust God for the unknown.

John MacArthur has helped me realized how important it is to cultivate a joyful heart. He say’s…..

“Spiritual joy, on the other hand, is not an attitude on chance or circumstances. It is the deep and abiding confidence that, regardless of one’s circumstances in life, all is well between the believer and the Lord. No matter what difficulty, pain, or disappointment, failure, rejection, or other challenge one is facing, genuine joy remains because of the eternal well-being established by God’s grace in salvation. Thus, Scripture makes it clear that the fullest; most lasting and satisfying joy is derived from a true relationship with God. It is not based on circumstances or chance, but is the gracious and permanent possession of every child of God.”

When he said “regardless of one’s circumstances” I was convicted! It was like a dagger going right into my heart. How often have I failed to cultivate a joyful heart in the midst of trying times.

John Piper say’s that “Knowing God is the key to being happy in God.” I need to be reminded daily that to have my joy in the Lord is not just a gift, it’s a command!

Daily Bible Verse:

Psalm 51:12-"Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit."