The Joy of the Lord

Romans 15:13

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Happiness is circumstantially driven – while Joy is spiritually derived. This is one of my favorite sayings. I believe I created it some 35 plus years ago. When I did a Google search for these words – the first and only post that matches is this devotional thought I posted online last year. I’ve used that phrase for 3-4 decades.

The meaning of the phrase is that things or circumstances make us Happy – but Joy comes from our relationship with Jesus. Happiness is temporary – while Joy is lasting – even eternal.

Living at Peace with Everyone

Hebrews 12:14

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy…

I know some families have issues during football season. Some couples I know root for opposing teams – like one will root for the Ravens while the other will root for the Steelers – or one will root for the Redskins while the other will root for the Cowboys. Football season is very interesting in those homes – especially when they play each other. Add to this the football widow or widower – where one spouse loves football and the other cannot stand it and you have tension in the home.

Last night in Bible study one of the brothers mentioned his wife’s support of the Capitals and his support for the Penguins and how there is usually tension in the home during hockey season – especially then they play each other. At least – he said – the Stanley Cup was in their home the last three years (2 for the Penguins and 1 for the Capitals)!