Joy Expresed

When we feel joyful, we want to express it—shout out, hug somebody, do something good or kind. Joy moves us to share our joy, and that’s how God makes His Good News known in our world. Today’s reading from Joy to Your World! is found on pages 33 and 34:

“When we experience it, joy will come to expression in a variety of ways. That is, joy is not an affection merely to be experienced. For joy to have its full effect, it must be expressed. And we may employ not only our songs, but our whole lives to declare the praises of Him Who brings us such joy.

“Once again, the Scriptures provide numerous suggestions to guide us in expressing the joy we have in the Kingdom of God. We may shout for joy, like a home-town partisan whose favorite player has just scored the winning basket (Pss. 47.1; 66.1). Singing songs of joy is also commended (Ps. 92.4). We may express our joy by giving to or comforting others in the midst of our adversity (2 Cor. 8.1, 2); sharing in the sowing and harvest of the seed of the Kingdom (Ps. 126.5); doing justice (Prov. 21.15); and by increasing in our experience of the Kingdom of God (Matt. 13.44). When at such times joy breaks forth from us, it looks like hope, confidence, peace, and complete overall wellbeing. 

“When, because of our knowledge of God, the joy that fills our souls comes to expression as joy lived, then our lives will make sense, our salvation will be visible to the watching world, and we can offer any who may ask, sound reasons for how that joy can be theirs as well.”

For reflection or discussion
1. When was the last time you experienced real joy? How did you express your joy at that time?

2. Real joy comes from being in the Presence of the Lord (Ps. 16.11). What can you do to increase your experience of joy?

Joy is meant to be lived. And when we live it, it’s God living through us, showing Himself to the world in all the multitude of small ways we glorify and enjoy Him each day. You can share the grace and joy of the Lord by sending today’s podcast to a friend, then getting together to discuss is. Order copies of Joy to Your World! from The Ailbe Bookstore and pass them around to your friends. 

T. M. Moore