2 Corinthians 7:4  “I have spoken to you with great frankness; I take great pride in you. I am greatly encouraged; in all our troubles my joy knows no bounds.” (NIV)

2 Corinthians 7:2-4  “Trust us. We’ve never hurt a soul, never exploited or taken advantage of anyone. Don’t think I’m finding fault with you. I told you earlier that I’m with you all the way, no matter what. I have, in fact, the greatest confidence in you. If only you knew how proud I am of you! I am overwhelmed with joy despite all our troubles.” (MSG)

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Joy, apparently, doesn’t depend on circumstances. 

Joy is a settled disposition. It doesn’t wax and wane like the moon’s phases. Instead, it’s a solid core that gives life to every conversation, peace to every interaction, and hope to every challenge. 

The Apostle Paul and the Corinthians experienced deep strains in their relationship. They navigated hard problems together. Paul spoke firm truth. He led with direct kindness. Through it all, he never lost his joy. Take a look at verse 7:

“His presence was a joy, but so was the news he brought of the encouragement he received from you. When he told us how much you long to see me, and how sorry you are for what happened, and how loyal you are to me, I was filled with joy!”

Joy refills even as you give it away. 

You can administer what you think is all the joy you have, only to discover new reserves beyond what you previously contained. 

I have a friend who is enduring a few uncomfortable hours today to reach the joy on the other side of what is sure to be a successful defense of his PhD dissertation. Feel free to pray for him now. Years of hard work have gone into this massive research project, all while he has been leading peacemaking initiatives around the world with people who don’t normally or comfortably associate with one another. 

That sounds a little bit like what Paul was dealing with, doesn’t it? 

How will you bring the joy in your heart to bear on the circumstances of this day? 

How do you anticipate experiencing joy even as you give it away? 

How will you record your experiences this evening so that you can return to them with joy one day?

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I will pour out all the joy I have so that I can receive more than I’ve ever known.

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Our Father, thank you for the gift of joy. Thank you that sometimes we experience it so deeply that we can’t even express what we truly feel and experience. Make us carriers of this gracious goodness that comes from your heart and hand. May we abound in blessing others with the joy you have blessed us to bear and share. Teach us how to keep a record of the joys you bring to our lives day by day. Help us anticipate the endless joy of your perfect presence one day. Amen.