Fruit of the Spirit- JOY

Galatians Continued.
JOY

It is a joy for the just to do justice, but destruction will come to the workers of iniquity. Proverbs 21:15

Breaking God's law never produced lasting joy. Neither does selfishly seeking ones own pleasures. They feel good for a time but deep down we have zero joy and a sense that something is missing. Always looking for the next best thing.
 James says we can have joy even in trials. Because we do not face them alone. God will see us through. Brothers and Sister are there to pray and help. The Church. .The BODY of Christ is there. Or at least they are supposed to be. (Be the Church) Back on topic.
 Joy is realizing that God loves us and wants to give good things to His Children (EHEM. Salvation, Peace, Grace, Etc. ) It is our delighted response to the fact that we have been given  precious truth and understanding. Which NOT everyone gets. Soak that in.
There are people that can't comprehend the JOY of the Lord. (We should show them)
We have joy that comes through the Holy Spirit and following His ways leads to contentment. Allows us to be optimistic when we look towards the future. When we demonstrate joy we are actively showing where our priorities are. Paul says REJOICE 16 times while in prison. The source of joyous contentment is rooted in Jesus Our Savior.

I am joyful. There are days that are not 'great' but I still have joy. I let go of what ever trouble comes and remember that the Joy of the Lord is my strength.  He has given me great gifts. They are not things. They are people. He uses people in my life to keep me focuses and remind me HOW GOOD HE IS. My Beloved shocks me every day. And I know that God gives him those words. And it gives me great JOY and even Peace. Be glad Children of the most high. We stand secure on the mountain heights and He makes our way perfect.

Be Blessed.