“Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I say it, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
Joy is central to the Christian life. Intentional disciples are joyful. When a soul is joyful it has wings to lift, to soar, to discover and to marvel. A happy soul is closer to God and is infused with a deepening generosity that leads to greater care and concern for other people.
In contrast, sadness dulls our sensibilities. Sadness weighs us down and turns us in on ourselves. It comes from an inability or stubborn unwillingness to seek God in all things. Sadness likens a diseased root that produces bitter fruit. It often is the source for an absence of charity and hastily advances reckless pursuit of comfort and convenience.
In time of trial, Christian joy strengthens and guides us toward freedom. Joy is God’s gift freely given when we sincerely seek Him. It always draws other people to take up the journey.
