03/22/2025
As we reflect on our theme scripture for this year, Romans 15:13, our word for today is “joy.”
In Romans 12:12, Paul encourages us to, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” The context of this verse is the entire chapter of Romans 12, in which Paul compares the hopefulness of choosing faith with the hopelessness of submitting to our fallen world. Paul urges us to submit ourselves completely to God and renew our minds, so we can discern and fulfill God’s will for our lives. Verse 12 is included in the section on how to put love in action. Paul is exhorting that when we choose to be joyful in hope and to take action in the other ways he describes, God’s love flows through our lives in ways that can bring much-needed positive change to our world.
Biblical joy is choosing to respond to external circumstances with inner contentment and peace, knowing that God will use these experiences for His purpose and Glory. It is a feeling of good pleasure and fulfillment that comes from the Holy Spirit and abiding in God’s presence. Joy is not merely an emotion, but a characteristic of the Christian, produced by the inner working of the Holy Spirit. It is not dependent on circumstances but is a gift from God.
We must hold on to our gift of joy and not surrender it. John 10:10 says “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." One of the most valuable things that the enemy wants to steal, kill and destroy is our joy. We all have trials, setbacks, disappointments and heartbreak. They are unfortunately common in life. It is absolutely necessary for us to base our joy in Christ and not in our looks, spouses, relationships, circumstances, careers, health or achievements.
All those things are conditional, but joy from Christ is permanent and eternal. Joy gives us courage to smile when our hearts are broken, motivates us to endure when we feel like throwing in the towel and equips us to trust He can always bring beauty from brokenness. Joy from Christ is life-giving. It comes through faith, that is, from believing God.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing” (Romans 15:13).
-Gwen Bradley
National Liaison for Prayer Mobilization and Partnerships