Last night, a woman in my Bible study shared how God gave her opportunities to tell people about Him on her recent vacation. This woman radiates joy – everything about her. She also has MS – a disease that is slowly robbing her of basic motor functions. But her conversations don’t center around her disease or her limitations. She talks about Jesus, how good He is, how much He loves us, and how she loves to share that love with others.
This woman has true joy – a joy that isn’t dependent on her circumstances. Her joy is in Christ, who never changes, whose mercies are new every morning.
As I listened to her last night, I was convicted that, externally, I have so much more than she does. I have legs that carry me without the aid of a walker. I can wear any clothing I want, not just those designed to help improve circulation and balance. I have energy to work all day, to go on walks. I can drive myself anywhere I want to go and am not dependent on anyone for help in my daily activities.
Yet…do I exude the kind of joy she does? When people walk away from me, are they reminded of Christ and His love? If I’m honest, I think the answer is, generally, “no.” I tend to talk about me – my family, my job, my interests, my complaints.
Listening to my friend last night, I was reminded that joy is a choice, and it shouldn’t be based on circumstances but on Christ. I can be joyful, even if life isn’t going exactly the way I want it to go. I can be joyful even through tears and trials. Joy isn’t about always smiling. It’s about resting in the peace that God is good, He is in control, and I can trust Him.
“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.” Psalm 5:11
