11/16

Jonathan Edwards in Religious Affections has been showing that Christianity is not just about knowing the right teachings or as he might say true orthodoxy. It is not just about believing the right things (although that is part of it). But true Christianity is also having the right emotions or religious affections. The Bible has a lot to say about how we live our lives in response to God, emotionally, spiritually, mindfully.

The next attribute he talks about is joy (which ironically is followed by sorrow).

The Bible commands those who follow God to be joyful. It is a good thing it says it so much because this is one of the harder things for us to keep. It is so much easier to complain, worry, whine, and fret. But let's see what the Bible can teach us about holy joy.

First lets see what is says about when we should rejoice. Philippians 4:4, 1 Thessalonians 5:16.
In both these verses we are told to rejoice always. Now the problem is that at some point in our lives if we live long enough we are going to get knocked down or kicked in the teeth.

Notice though in both verses, we are not told to rejoice in the good time. Nor are we told to rejoice in the blessings of God. In fact we are told to rejoice in the Lord. Rejoice in who he is. Rejoice that there is a just, wise, Fatherly God who cares.

So if we are rejoicing in who God is, then it makes sense that we can be joyful always because even though our circumstances might change from good to bad or bad to good in a heartbeat, he never changes. He is always a holy, gracious God.

Let's look at a few more verses. Jesus teaches us that we can rejoice in persecution. Matthew 5:11-12.

We can rejoice despite evil and evildoers. Psalm 37:1-4. All the evil will fade away. Delight in what God delights in, this will help you to be joyful always. Rejoice in the person of God, not just in his blessings or your good circumstances.

Now the question I have, how do we rejoice?

Psalm 33:1-3. With lyre, melodies, 10 stringed guitars (harps), make us a song, sing an old one, play skillfully, and sing it loud. Turn your heart to God and shout for joy. He is good. Jesus is risen! Death your time will only last a little longer! Evil is on its way out! He is good and He is risen! Shout it.

And Psalm 149:1-4. Not only sing it, but dance it. Boogie down with tambourine and guitar. The Lord takes pleasure in his people! He clothes us with salvation!

Finally, all this may come easier to some than to others. But it is a part of true religion/true Christianity. If this is difficult for you remember that joy fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:21). Ask God to help you have a joyful heart and see his Spirit work in you. Prayer is a tool that will never go to waste. Call out to him and see your heart change.

Check out this joyful video. The fall of Satan! A Mighty Fortress is Our God!