Pure Joy

Just what is Pure Joy? Let’s see what the scriptures tell us.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.”

James 1:2-8 NIV I have 5 questions for each of us to ponder.

[if !supportLists]1. [endif]Do you desire pure joy in your life?

2. Are you willing to see adversity as a pathway towards a closer walk with Jesus?

3. What situations are you dealing with right now that you regret or are trying to avoid?

4. Should we consider that possibly we have a poor attitude or the wrong spirit (a lack of joy) about situations which involve our time, talents and/or treasures?

5. Does serving the body of Christ and others cause your joy to increase or decrease?

I look around and sometimes I wonder if we really believe what the Scriptures tell us that in giving of ourselves God provides a supernatural level of energy, excitement and ultimately pure joy!

The scripture passage which started off this article talks about when we go through times of testing and trials; we should consider it pure joy! How much more should we consider it pure joy when we get to serve the body of Christ first and then those in our circles of love and influence?

One of my favorite verses is Jesus telling us he wants to give us His joy, this pure joy were talking about. I have personally experienced this, and know it happens in greater measure as we give of our time, talents and treasures towards others. Obviously these opportunities can be very challenging, yet it provides for us a supernatural doorway into Pure Joy.

“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”

John 15:9-12.

I desire Pure Joy so I am working on my obedience! Who will join me?