In 2 Corinthians 7:4, Paul, whose Christian life was marked with persecutions and suffering (2 Corinthians 11:22-28), says “I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation.” Paul had tapped into a source of Joy beyond human understanding. If you spend enough time with someone that is full of joy, some of that joy is likely going to “rub off” on you. The Bible says of Jesus that God anointed Him “with the oil of gladness…” Hebrews 1:9. Associating with Him is going to bring His joy into our life (John 15:11). 1 John 1:4 says “And these things (things about Jesus) we write to you that your joy may be full.” Joy is different than happiness: happiness that is dependent on outer circumstances will cost a lot to obtain and is short lived. Real joy comes from within and is not dependent on outer circumstances; it has been paid for by Jesus, and is everlasting! His indwelling is the Christians source of joy!
Joy In Jail
-By Rose Hill
(Charles Hembree said, “I have stood in the prison where the Apostle Paul was confined just before his martyrdom. The walls are cold, rough rocks, the dungeon is so damp one feels chilled at midday. Only a tiny hole lets in light and air. There is no heat and the ceiling is so low I could not stand up straight. Paul stayed here at least two years and from here he wrote his last great epistle, 2 Timothy.”)
They took Paul the Apostle to the jail,
But to make him sad ‘twas to no avail.
He had grace and peace from the Father above,
And overflowing joy because of God’s love.
He was also confident of this very thing,
That God started to do a good work in him.
And God would never quit before He was done,
In making him a very blessed one.
It appeared to others that things were going wrong,
Because Paul was in the jail so long.
But Paul rejoiced in spite of his chains,
Perhaps some thought he had no brains.
We know Paul was not at all insane,
He said to die in Christ is gain.
He was looking beyond this day of strife,
And holding fast to the word of life.
He knew that he would not run in vain,
If he preached Christ the one who was slain.
As Christ suffered so Paul was willing,
He counted it joy and even thrilling.
He encouraged his brethren to rejoice always,
And again he said, rejoice all your days.
Don’t worry about one single thing,
But with thanksgiving to your God sing.
Paul learned to always be content,
Whatever happened or wherever he went.
He knew God could supply all his need,
And that from trouble he would be freed.
Scripture quotations are form the New King James Version copyright by Thomas Nelson Co. and are used by permission.