Over the last several weeks, we have examined different ways in which one can have joy in Christ. Paul wrote, “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). Joy in Christ is not an escape from sorrow. Pain and hardship still come, but they are unable to drive out the happiness of the one who is redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. This joy only came from being “in the Lord.”
We try so hard in our own futile ways to get the joy that we want. We pay someone to entertain us for short periods of time, but this joy never lasts very long. Joy is about what God gives, not what we work up. The joy that develops in a Christian does not come from feeling good about yourself, but feeling good about God. We know that His ways are dependable and His promises are sure.
Today, you can have that joy. Lasting joy comes by obeying the Bible and living His principles to the fullest. We have examined the principles and now it is time to conclude with how one obeys the Bible. First, one must have faith (John 8:24; Hebrews 11:6). Second, one must repent of their sins (Luke 13:3, 5; Acts 17:30-31). Third, one must confess Jesus as God’s Son (Matthew 10:32; Romans 10:9-10). Finally, one must be buried with Christ for the remission of sins (John 3:3, 5; Romans 6:3-5). Every step of obedience can be found within the pages of the New Testament. If you will obey, you can truly “rejoice in the Lord.” If you will respond, God will give it to you now. Contact us to study the Bible further.
Kyle Campbell
