The Gift of Joy

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Joy. It’s something we all seek and desire in our lives. Many times we confuse joy and happiness. Happiness based on the word “happenstance” is fickle and fleeting depending on our circumstances. Joy, however, is steadfast and sure. Joy is not dependent upon our circumstances or feelings. It’s deep and abiding. Today’s Scripture is all about how we can experience joy, regardless of our circumstances.

His Name IS Advent Devotion: Day 17

As we continue to work our way through Isaiah 9:2-7 and today we come to verse 3.

You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joythey rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. —Isaiah 9:3

Three times in this one verse we find the word joy —there are three different Hebrew words for joy in this one passage:

joy – śimḥâ – rejoicing, gladness, pleasure. It refers to the reality, the experience and manifestation of joy and gladness. It refers to a celebration of something with joyful and cheerful activities. (Complete Word Study Bible Dictionary)

rejoice – śāmaḥ – A verb meaning to rejoice; to be joyful, to be glad; to gloat. It describes a state and agitation of rejoicing, of being happy. (Complete Word Study Bible Dictionary)

glad – giyl a primitive root; properly, to spin round, to rejoice. (I love this one! Spinning round with joy!) (Complete Word Study Bible Dictionary)

In Psalm 43:4 we find a wonderful name of God, El Simha Giyl, meaning My God, my rejoicing joy!

Psalm 16:11 tells us in His presence is fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore.

You get the point. Jesus IS our JOY!

Be encouraged by these verses from the New Testament on the joy we have in Jesus:

Romans 5:2-3

Romans 5:11

Romans 12:12

Philippians 4:4

1 Peter 1:6-7

Revelation 19:7

Has joy characterized your Christmas season thus far? Or have you been caught up in the whirlwind frenzy of activity? Take time today to be still and rest in Jesus’ presence.  Experience the joy He brings, not only to this season but to each day.

What are you finding joy in today? Share with us and spread the joy!

 

 

This post was first published on the blog on December 18, 2014.

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Susan Cady

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