Engaged Minds Filled with Joy

13 “I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.

It is not natural to look for the joy when we find ourselves in the midst of trouble. I can remember years ago when my business was failing it was hard to think of anything but the mess I was in.  I obsessed about what to do next and never considered rejoicing.

But Paul wrote his joyful letters while in prison. We might wonder how he could write about rejoicing while he was in chains; but it is worth noting that he says rejoice, he doesn't say be happy! He also isn't saying to rejoice in your situation, but rejoice in the Lord.

We all experience times of great trouble when we are anything but happy.  There isn't a lot to laugh about when faced with a serious illness or when we find ourselves in over our heads in debt. But, I know from personal struggles that, while I am not giggly or bubbling over with joy, I do have a sense of peace and delight when I turn to God for direction or comfort.

Engaged minds, focused on Jesus and seeking His Word for direction and clarity, will find joy in all things. 

John 17:13-19