In a world that wrings its hands over economic recessions, global warming, warring nations and starving children, joy can get buried by the onslaught of pessimism. Yet Paul tells you that joy will be the sweet outgrowth of abiding in the Spirit just as naturally as fruit appears on a vine. It is an expression of mutual delight of the Spirit working in the believer and the believer dwelling in the Spirit. In the words of Eugene Peterson, "Joy is not a requirement of Christian discipleship, it is a consequence ... a product of abundance, an overflow of vitality." | The fruit of the Spirit is ... joy. Galatians 5:22 |  |
Paul not only told the church that they would naturally be joyful, but he also demonstrated it throughout his life. While in prison he found reason to sing. In the midst of a shipwreck he encouraged the crew. Under house arrest he wrote letters to young churches and their leaders that continue to instruct Christians today.
How does your life bear the fruit of joy in the midst of your challenges? Pray that you recognize the Spirit's delight in you, even as you grow in your delight of His work within you, as you intercede for the nation and its leaders.
May the joy of the Lord be with you,
Roger
This article taken from Vantage Point Devotional – August 4th, 2010, PrayerTeam@Presidential-Prayer-Team.org
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