Oswald Chambers: Joy - Strength In The LordExemplo

The Scriptures are full of admonitions to rejoice, to praise God, to sing aloud for joy; but only when one has a cause to rejoice, to praise, and to sing aloud can these things truly be done from the heart. In the physical realm the average sick man does not take a very bright view of life, and with the sick in soul true brightness and cheer are an impossibility. Until the soul is cured there is always an underlying dread and fear which steals away the gladness and unspeakable joy which God desires for all His children.

Only when God takes a life in hand can there come deliverance from discouragement. Living in the peace and joy of God’s forgiveness and favor is the only thing that will bring cheerfulness.

Reflection Questions: What is my reason for rejoicing? From what sickness—physical or spiritual—have I been cured? From what discouragement have I been delivered? From what fear have I been freed?

Quotations taken from Workmen of God, © Discovery House Publishers