TIME FOR JOY

Psalm 98:4

“Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth; Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises.”

Isaac Watts who wrote Joy To The World, found his inspiration for the words in Psalm 98.

After Isaac Watts died, Lowell Mason (the first American Music Educator) arranged music inspired by George Handel Messiah, to this original poem in 1839.

Did you know that Christians all over the world are being persecuted for their faith? In spite of the persecution they experience, these believers continue to meet in secret. Due to the fear of persecution, they must sing their songs in silence. Despite the danger they still gather together and mouth the words of worship in silent unison.

If you live in a place where you are not threaten when you sing songs for God, you are blessed. Here are two questions to reflect on today:

1.When I have the opportunity, do I sing with a strong conviction loud and clear for my Lord and Savior?

2.Do I live my life joyfully for the Lord?

Self-evaluation is difficult but very healthy for each one of us. This is not a time for guilt but a time for growing.

Joy is lasting.

Joy is necessary.

Happiness depends on what is happening, but joy depends on Jesus.

This Christmas season let’s seek to have the joy of Jesus Christ that will last for our entire life time on earth and for eternity in heaven.

Do you have any suffering in your life? Are you surrounded by conflict and confusion? Be encouraged you are not alone. God is with you and working in you.

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” Eph. 3:20

Hold on to the joy of the Lord and daily lift up the name of Christ.

“Joy is the serious business of heaven.” C.S. Lewis

JOY TO THE WORLD

Joy to the World the Lord has come;

Let earth receive her King.

Let every heart prepare him room,

And heaven and nature sing!