Based on “Life Happens” by Pastor Mark Balmer; 6/26-27/10
Message #6052; Daily Devotional #1 - “JOY in the JOurneY”
Preparing the Soil (Introduction): Life is what happens when you are making other plans. I’ve said that many times when something unexpected interrupts my life or that of someone I know. It is an acknowledgement that, despite our best efforts, we are not in control of our lives. This truth, apart from our loving God, is fatalistic and offers us no hope. If we believe we are subject to some cosmic force (fate), we can begin to lose purpose in our lives. Even if we acknowledge that God is in control but we have no personal relationship with Him, we are without hope. As Christ followers, life is what happens as God unfolds the plan He has for our lives. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28, NASB) This truth gives us purpose, hope, and, yes, joy in our lives, even in the midst of the worst circumstances. When we are confident that our lives are in God’s hands, that He has a plan for us, and that His plan is good, (Jeremiah 29:11) we can choose to be joyful in whatever comes our way.
Planting and Watering the Seed (Growth): The key to our joy in the midst of trials is our attitude. We can choose to recognize that this has always been a part of God’s plan for our lives, and the only thing different is that He is letting you know more about what that plan is. This reality hit home with me two days after 9/11 when I was diagnosed with cancer. God assured me that, while it was news to me, it wasn’t to Him. I knew the only choice that would bring me peace was to acknowledge and submit myself to His plan. While family and friends around me became fearful when I told them the diagnosis, I had the peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7). I found a joyful liberation that came from relinquishing control to God, Who is more capable of handling it in the first place. No, it wasn’t always pleasant, nor was it always easy, but God fueled my joy in many things that I might not have fully appreciated otherwise: rainbows, butterflies, flowers from my husband, a smile from a cashier, God’s presence in the early morning hours when I couldn’t sleep, friends and family that sent notes or called at just the right time. I find that liberation is ongoing as I keep my eyes focused on God in all things.
Harvesting the Crop (Action/Response): "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33) In this verse, Jesus tells us three truths: We will have trouble in this world. We can take heart because He has overcome this world. Therefore, we can have peace (joy). God is for us, who can be against us (Psalm 56:9)? For the Christ follower, life is a journey orchestrated by God. Ask Him to help you find His JOY in your JOurneY.
Cultivating (Additional Reading): Philippians 4:4-8; Colossians 3:2
klw
Calvary Chapel of Melbourne; 2955 Minton Road; W. Melbourne, FL 32904; 321-952-9673
All Bible references are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise noted.
New American Standard Bible = NASB.