When we are happy there is no greater feeling. Our senses and our soul are connected. There are many things in this world that have the ability to bring us temporary joy. The smell of a fresh baked cookies, the soothing effects of a nice warm shower or a relaxing massage. All of these things are the physical manifested into the spiritual and emotional. We feel happy and glad at these good things. Yet, these things do not last. The massage ends, the cookie jar goes empty, and the water gets turned off. They are only temporary. Still we go on and on about these temporary things. Often we look forward to the next time we can experience those things that brought us temporary joy. Sometimes to our own detriment. However, there is a source of joy that is not evaporating and does not leave us. It is the joy of the Holy Spirit. The love of God. The eternal presence of Jesus.
"All good giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no alteration or shadow caused by change. He willed to give us birth by the word of truth that we may be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures." James 1:17-18
In my own life those gifts include peace and joy. While praying I have often felt God's peace. When life hits me with difficulties I turn to God and he strengthens me. I told one of my friends the other day that prayer is how I deal with the struggles in my life. There are many moments, looking back, that I know I could not have made it through without God. In those moments I knew that I had no power to do anything and it was all up to God. In those moments of prayers I find peace. I am able to let go of the anxiety that is weighing me down. In a world where there is so much to do and so much to get done I am glad to find peace in God. God's gifts are many and peace is only one. Joy is another gift that God has often graced me with.
Have you ever walked into a place and known it was where you belonged? That place for me is church. Some of my closest friends are friends I have made through church. I'm not necessarily talking about the place itself, but also the people that make up the church. A community of people gathered through the love of God. Our hearts are open to Jesus and His love overflows into everything we do. I have stood at praise and worship, with those same friends and together we raised our voices to God. In proclaiming God's goodness there is joy. A joy of being united with a group of people who are thankful for the love of God. It is a joy and a peace that can not be found anywhere else. In these moments of praise and worship I know that God is with me. I know that I do not need to search for the "next best thing". God is the best thing. There is nothing greater than He.
The peace and joy that come from God through prayer and God's love are greater than anything that comes from the Earth. God calls us to share all that he has given us with the world. Peter and the Apostles stood at trial and said, "We are witnesses of these things, as is the holy Spirit that God has given to those who obey him.” Acts 5:32.
Therefore friends, share these things with the world. Share Jesus. Share the Holy Spirit. Share God's love. Go forth and tell everyone that you meet about the peace and joy God lavishes on us when we seek to be in his presence. Tell your closest friends and your not so close friends. Why settle for sharing something that is temporary? Share the Kingdom of God with them. Share the love of the church with them. Share your relationship with God. Let them know that you trust in Jesus. Shout to the mountain tops. Sing of the Lord's Goodness. Let his praises ever be on your mouth. "Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope." 1 Peter 3:15.
Be the Light
No comments:
Post a Comment