Monday, December 11, 2023

Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.

John 16:20

Last week, we talked about how Jesus came and brought peace. This week, we will focus on joy. One writer says that biblical joy is making a choice to respond to our outside circumstances with “inner contentment and satisfaction, knowing that God will use these things to accomplish work in our lives. That is a powerful statement. We learn that joy is a choice! Joy is produced by the Holy Spirit. We are incapable of making it.  

In this passage of Scripture, Jesus instructs his disciples about their upcoming season. He knew the pain and agony they would go through, as their Master endured great tribulation, ultimately dying on the cross. He tells them that they will weep and mourn while the world rejoices, but eventually their grief will turn to joy.    

Isn’t this our story? As Christians, we live counter to a culture that looks for satisfaction and understanding in the here and now. These same words apply. As we walk through this pilgrim journey, we may experience grief and sorrow, but in due season, our grief will turn to joy. 

PRAYER: I’m counting my blessings this season, Lord. I am so grateful that your coming to earth has ushered in a joy that cannot be produced in any other way.  While the world pursues happiness, I choose joy!