Fruit of Joy
The fruit of JOY! There is nothing better for our souls than joy. It is better than good; better than great. It is that deeper and richer feeling we have when joy permeates our being. We are blessed to have that feeling because the Holy Spirit resides inside us. There are numerous times and situations that can bring us happiness. I firmly believe to have true joy means that Jesus is with us. The reason behind that is that there can be joy in difficult times. Remember James 1:2-3?
“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.”
When I think back upon my life, was I able to consider joy during trials? To be honest, I am not certain. Yet, I do remember two distinct moments when joy replaced sadness in my life. Both of these scenarios were when I lost my parents. It has been 25 years since my dad passed. We did not anticipate his leaving us so soon, and as sad as I was to see him leave earth, the joy I felt in my heart is that he was in heaven with Jesus – singing with the angels. The same feeling of joy came over me as I watched my mom pass into her heavenly home, almost ten months ago. As difficult as it was to watch her pass to Jesus, my heart was joyful because she so yearned to see Jesus’ face. I knew the joy she wanted.
Joy can creep up on us and provide us moments of peace during moments of trial. The joy that comes with challenges is reflected in our true understanding that Jesus is with us, the Holy Spirit is in us. When we fully experience the fruit of joy, we know that walking with us is the One who can give us certainty amongst the uncertain; the One who can give us purpose amongst the confusion. Falling into the Holy Spirit’s arms of joy, and knowing we carry that joy within us, assists us in sharing our joy with others.
During my battle with cancer, there were times I felt joyful. When I finally realized that Jesus was with me, fighting my battle with me, ensuring we were in this together, joy filled my heart. My head may have been bald, but my heart was full of joy! Friends, our joy, the joy found in the Holy Spirit, can fill us up when we least expect it. Our hope and joy and anchored in Jesus. What do we need to do to have this joy? Have simple faith that He has freely given joy to each and every one of us. By His death and resurrection, we can live in the joy of a heavenly home! May joy fill your soul!
Video that complements this post: Fruit of Joy
Holy Spirit, thank you for filling my soul with joy. May I share this joy that you so freely provide me with to all that I meet. May they know that my joy, in all circumstances, comes from you. Amen!