Joy...
What is joy?
Well, it goes beyond happiness. The dictionary defines it as probably being akin to a greek word, which means to rejoice.
What causes such an emotion in human beings...to reach beyond mere happiness to rejoicing?
I believe that the Lord has "hardwired" us human beings to experience joy the most, when we reach out and help another person in need.
Have you ever given food to the hungry, clothing to anyone who was cold, or money to someone in dire need? If so, then you know the joy and satisfaction that you felt afterward.
Giving is so important to the Lord, that the Bible admonishes us to do so as Christians:
Luke 6:38
Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
But wait? What's this? It is saying that the Lord will bless us for giving? Men shall then give to us? Yes!
So then this thing of giving takes on a whole new twist. Do you have a need? Then give to help someone else...and then the Lord will see that your need is taken care of also. You may give not only because another is in need, but also out of your own need. I know that it's difficult to give when you are in need also...but the Lord has set up this principle, I believe, to test the hearts of His children. Will they let go of what they have to help another, when their own need is also so important?
What would happen in this world if every person looked for a need, and then gave of their own resources to fill that need? I guarantee you that every need would be filled...and joy would fill each and every heart.
Give it a try...what have you got to lose...except your heavy heart...and perhaps your own need!
until He returns...
marcy
