Instruct the wise, and they will be even wiser
Everywhere we look, people are searching for a meaningful life. Some pursue success, while others chase after wealth, pleasure, or recognition; yet these things often leave the heart unsatisfied. Deep within, we know there must be more to life than simply existing, enduring, or striving without true fulfilment. God never intended for us to live in defeat, emptiness, or constant struggle. Instead, He has prepared a life of abundance, joy, and peace for all who walk with Him. Each day is a fresh opportunity to step into the life God has designed – a better way to live, filled with purpose and gratitude. We don’t have to settle for less, or be weighed down by fear, doubt, or despair. God has called us into a better way of living – one marked by His joy, His peace, and His presence. This article invites you to step out of the ordinary and into an extraordinary way of being. Be blessed as you read!
Rejoicing every day is a better way to live. How do you find joy every day? This reminds me of John 10:10, a scripture that many of us are familiar with. The Bible says that Jesus came to give us life and to give it more abundantly – not less. So, let’s rejoice over that and thank God for His gift. I want to encourage you: not only is today the day that God made for you to rejoice and be glad (Psalm 118:24), but this entire week holds strategic divine appointments for you. Let’s not waste these opportunities by focusing on our selfish desires. Instead, let’s recognise that something greater is unfolding in our lives today, which can bring everlasting transformation through the supernatural power of Jesus’ name.
There’s joy in communicating with the Lord. In Philippians 1:3-4, Paul says, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy.” Prayer is the act of communing with God. The Greek word for prayer means to speak or to have a conversation with Him. This does not necessarily involve asking for things; rather, it is about enjoying His presence, loving Him, and praising Him. There is another term called supplication, which specifically refers to making requests. Often, prayer and supplication go hand in hand. First, you engage in communion with God, and then you can present your requests or concerns to Him. There is great joy in communicating with God. If you are not communicating with Him, you may find yourself focused on your problems instead. Remember, if you are not in communion with God, you are likely communicating with your troubles. You cannot find joy by dwelling on your problems; true joy comes from connecting with God.
There’s joy in the presence of God. When you spend time with God, you’re in his presence. Psalm 16:11 says, “You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” The Bible does not say, “In Your presence is fullness of depression, worry, and sorrow.” Instead, it states, “You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” There is joy in communing with God. You cannot spend time with God and not experience joy in your heart. In His presence, there is fullness of joy. “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go into the house of the Lord.’” (Psalm 122:1). If you’re complaining before the Lord, then you’re not going to have joy.
" You can find peace no matter what challenges you face because the joy of the Lord is your strength. "
Why is joy so important? First, joy serves as a source of strength. We are familiar with the well-known phrase from scripture: “The joy of the Lord is our strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 says, “Then he said to them, go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” I love this: go home and prepare a feast with holiday food and drink, and share it with those who don’t have anything. This day is holy to God. Don’t feel bad; the joy of God is your strength! Joy is connected to strength. Simply embrace joy, and it will become your strength. Receive it with joy.
What does “the joy of the Lord is my strength” mean, and how can we apply it to our daily lives? Nehemiah 8:10 says, “Do not sorrow”; that’s a choice. We are told not to be sad because the joy of the Lord is our strength. Many people experience burnout, often expressing, “I’m just burned out.” This happens when we rely on our own strength rather than drawing from the joy of the Lord. Many people go through seasons of burnout, and the reason for this is that they are trying to live life on their own terms instead of trusting in the joy that comes from God, which is our true strength. Living life solely from our own resources can make it challenging, leading to feelings of confusion and depression. When we find ourselves overwhelmed by “what if” statements about the future, it often reflects our attempt to manage our lives in our own strength. However, when we consciously choose to embrace the joy of the Lord, we can maintain joy regardless of our circumstances.
You can find peace no matter what challenges you face. It all depends on what you believe. He will fill you with joy and peace. Do you believe that? When you feel joyful, you also have energy. Have you ever struggled with depression? It drains your energy, while joy can actually give you strength. Joy is linked to the release of endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that can boost your energy levels. Endorphins are chemicals in your body that provide energy. In contrast, when you’re depressed, it can truly drain the life out of you.
Don’t let circumstances ruin your day. Joy is a choice, as it’s often the situations we face that can bring us down. Choose joy by casting your burdens onto the Lord. Decide to be joyful. That problem or burden must not ruin your day or bother you. Why? Because there is joy in faith. When you trust in God and hand over your burdens to Him, believing that He is in control and actively addressing your problems, that is when you truly experience joy.
