At a time when we have a bouquet filled with different genre of gospel artists, we risk the expression of joy from vain praises and worship that is nothing but entertainment. We need to know what is the well spring of joy we are displaying or demonstrating. Consider the following:

1. Joy from earthly good things—Natural human joy in response to positive circumstances and blessings such as abundant harvest, birth of a child or a delightful friendship (Isaiah 9:3). What is the principal drawback of this type of joy? It is transient, temporal and subject to change.
2. Joy from salvation—the profound joy that comes from believing in Christ, that brings righteousness, peace and assurance that you are reconciled to God, no longer subject to eternal judgment, but are in the kingdom of God (Isaiah 12:3-5; John 16:24). What is the drawback? Falling away again to sin.
3. Joy in the Holy Spirit—the God-given joy available to every believer and is an unquenchable fruit of the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17; Galatians 5:22; 1 Thessalonians 1:6) What is the draw back? Living in sin.
4. Joy unspeakable—the profound joy that comes from resting in God’s unfailing love, faithful love and goodness even when circumstances are negative. It is the love founded upon deep trust in God’s sovereignty and only found in the presence of God (1 Peter 1:8; Romans 5:5). What is the drawback? Abandoning intimacy with God.
5. Joy in the face of adversity—despite suffering and persecution, believers find joy because of hope in future redemption and assurance of eternal life (1 Thessalonians 1:6; Philippians 4:19; Philippians 1:25-29).

Ponder on these things and position yourself to align with giving God pleasure. Shalom.


Pastor Afolabi Oladele