I STILL HAVE JOY
The phrase “I Still Have Joy” serves as a powerful affirmation that we can share with those around us. I encourage you to express this sentiment to someone nearby, whether they are physically present or joining you through a digital platform. As you engage with this message, consider using the hashtag ‘I still have joy’ on social media to spread this uplifting declaration. By the conclusion of this discourse, you will grasp the significance of this statement, as it will resonate with the idea that, regardless of the challenges faced, joy remains intact. Prepare your hearts and minds for this reflection, and also gather your communion materials, as we will partake in this sacred act together at the end of the message.
This morning, I will delve into the theme of “I Still Have Joy,” drawing inspiration from the biblical account of the prophet Elijah as recorded in the book of 1 Kings. In chapter 17, we encounter Elijah, a man from Tishbi in Gilead, who boldly approaches King Ahab with a proclamation that there will be no rain in the land except at his command. This introduction highlights Elijah’s unwavering confidence in his divine calling, as he stands firm in the authority bestowed upon him by God. His declaration not only signifies his role as a prophet but also underscores the potency of God’s promises. The ensuing famine, resulting from the absence of rain, serves as a backdrop for God’s faithfulness, as He continues to demonstrate His power in Elijah’s life, affirming both the prophet’s words and the divine assurance that sustains him amidst adversity.
It is one matter for God to utilize an individual as a vessel to convey His message, yet it is an entirely different matter for God to ensure that individual’s preservation when the consequences of that message begin to unfold. This divine safeguarding is crucial to prevent one from becoming a disoriented prophet or a lost child of God. In the narrative found in Chapter 16 of 1 Kings, we observe God instructing Elijah to first seek refuge at the brook, where he would be nourished by a raven. As the brook eventually dried up, God directed him to Zarephath, where a widow would provide for him. This sequence of events sets the stage for remarkable encounters, including Elijah’s confrontation with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, an event that has come to be known in modern terms as The Elijah Challenge.
During this pivotal moment, Elijah boldly proclaimed that if the Lord is indeed God, then He should be served, and if Baal is God, then he should be worshipped. He proposed a challenge: the God who answers with fire would be the true God. In front of the entire city, Elijah faced off against four hundred prophets of Baal. The prophets engaged in various frantic rituals, calling upon their deity, while Elijah taunted them, suggesting that perhaps their god was preoccupied or absent. After their futile attempts, Elijah stepped forward, having meticulously prepared the altar and arranged the wood. When he called upon the Lord, fire descended from heaven, demonstrating God’s undeniable power. This extraordinary event, witnessed by the entire city, underscored the might of God in Elijah’s life, as chronicled in 1 Kings 18.
Elijah was deeply immersed in the experience of God’s power, reveling in the divine manifestations that surrounded him. Following a series of miraculous events, he felt compelled to pray once more, instructing the king to prepare his chariot in anticipation of the abundant rain he sensed approaching. After fervent prayer, Elijah sent his servant to survey the horizon, and after six fruitless attempts, the servant finally reported seeing a small cloud, no larger than a man’s hand, rising from the sea. With this sign, Elijah urged the king to hasten back home, warning that the impending storm could impede his journey. In a remarkable display of divine strength, Elijah gathered his garments and outran the king’s chariot, a testament to the extraordinary power of God that had been evident throughout his ministry.
However, the narrative takes a dramatic turn in 1 Kings 19, where the aftermath of Elijah’s triumph unfolds. Upon returning home, King Ahab recounted to Queen Jezebel all that Elijah had accomplished, including the execution of the prophets of Baal. Jezebel, a fervent worshipper of Baal, had introduced this idolatry into Israel, leading many astray. The tension between Elijah’s faithfulness to God and Jezebel’s influence over Ahab and the nation sets the stage for a profound conflict, highlighting the challenges faced by those who stand firm in their beliefs amidst a culture steeped in idolatry.
The situation had grave consequences, as the people fell into idolatry, provoking Jezebel’s wrath. In a fit of anger, she communicated her intentions to Elijah, threatening him with death. In modern terms, this message could have easily been conveyed through a tweet or a text message. Jezebel’s message was clear and menacing: she vowed that if Elijah was not dead by the next day, then may God strike her down. This declaration was a direct response to Elijah’s triumph over the prophets of Baal, and it instilled fear in him, prompting him to flee for his life. He sought refuge in Beersheba, a town in Judah, where he left his servants behind, choosing to isolate himself in his moment of distress.
Elijah’s retreat into solitude highlights a troubling aspect of human experience—how fear can lead to isolation. The mere receipt of a threatening message caused him to withdraw from those around him, a behavior that can signal the onset of deeper emotional struggles. This isolation can escalate, leading individuals to seek solitude for extended periods, which may be indicative of depression or despair. Despite the numerous miracles and divine guidance Elijah had previously experienced, including the provision of sustenance and the courage to confront false prophets, a single message from Jezebel shattered his resolve. It serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly one’s confidence can wane in the face of adversity. In this season, it is my hope that you remain steadfast, that your spirit does not falter, and that the grace bestowed upon you continues to flourish.
May your heart remain unbroken this season in the name of the Lord Jesus. As I previously mentioned, a single message was sufficient to bring the world of Elijah crashing down. He abandoned his people and ventured into the wilderness, wandering aimlessly throughout the day, akin to a restless spirit. Eventually, he found solace beneath a solitary broom tree, where he prayed for death, expressing a profound sense of despair. This was the same Elijah who had triumphed in the Elijah Challenge, confronted the prophets of Baal, and vanquished four hundred of them. He had boldly challenged the king and even outran Ahab’s chariot just a day prior. Yet, in an instant, his world was shaken by a single message, leading him from fear to a state of suicidal thoughts, as he lamented to the Lord that he had reached his limit and wished for his life to end, feeling unworthy compared to his ancestors who had already passed away.
I would like to take a moment to pose a question to those participating in this service today: Is there a message that has threatened to rob you of your joy during this season? Consider the sources of such messages—whether they stem from the news, your workplace, your business, or even your personal relationships. What is the nature of this information that has diminished your joy and confidence, leaving you feeling as though everything is spiraling out of control? Is it the prevailing discourse surrounding the virus or the so-called “new normal” that is disrupting numerous businesses? Regardless of the source, I want to remind you that the joy of the Lord remains within your heart. In this message, I aim to reassure you that joy is still accessible to you, and it is vital to recognize that you still possess the capacity for joy amidst the challenges you face.
The ability to experience joy is intrinsically linked to one’s progress in life, as anything that diminishes this joy can significantly hinder personal development. The profound nature of joy is underscored by the scripture that states, “the joy of the Lord is my strength.” This assertion implies that a lack of joy equates to a depletion of strength and hope. The narrative of Elijah serves as a poignant illustration of this principle; as his joy waned, so too did his vitality and purpose. This raises an important question: what exactly constitutes joy? Is it merely a fleeting sense of excitement or a deeper appreciation for life itself?
To explore the essence of joy, one can refer to various definitions, such as that provided by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, which describes joy as an emotion arising from well-being, success, or the anticipation of fulfilling one’s desires. However, a more nuanced understanding is offered by Wikipedia, which characterizes joy as a state of mind and heart orientation, encompassing contentment, confidence, and hope. This perspective aligns more closely with biblical teachings. Notably, theologian John Piper articulates that Christian joy is a profound feeling within the soul, cultivated by the Holy Spirit, which enables individuals to perceive the beauty of Christ both in scripture and in the world around them. Piper emphasizes that true joy is derived from the Holy Spirit and is essential for interpreting God’s actions in our lives.
Rick Warren, the esteemed Pastor of Saddleback Community Church and author of the influential book “Purpose Driven Church,” offers profound insights on the concept of joy. He articulates that joy embodies a deep-seated assurance that God governs every aspect of our lives, coupled with a quiet confidence that, in the end, everything will turn out well. Warren emphasizes that this joy is not derived from our own abilities to rectify situations but rather from the understanding that God, who oversees the intricate details of our existence, possesses the ultimate authority to ensure that all will be well. This perspective encourages individuals to relinquish worry and to rise above fear and anxiety, as they recognize the omnipotence of God in their lives.
In light of this understanding, one must reflect on the current state of their joy.
If we were to visualize a joy meter, where would it register? Are you experiencing a vibrant sense of joy, indicated by the green zone, or are you feeling a sense of depletion, perhaps in the yellow or even red zones? It is essential to assess not only the presence of joy but also its intensity. A lack of joy can lead to a sense of unease, akin to driving a vehicle with a dwindling fuel tank, which inevitably brings about anxiety regarding when the journey might come to an abrupt halt. Therefore, it is crucial to engage with these questions and evaluate the measure of joy in your life, as this reflection can guide you toward a more fulfilling and peaceful existence.
It is evident that you have expended a significant amount of energy and emotional resilience this season, leaving you in a state of depletion without any means of replenishment. This ongoing struggle can lead to the onset of anxiety, and if not addressed, may escalate into panic attacks, ultimately culminating in a complete emotional breakdown. It is crucial to recognize that such a state does not align with the divine purpose for your life, as articulated in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is imperative to take proactive steps to manage your emotional well-being and cultivate a sense of joy. Rather than merely affirming that you possess joy, it is essential to actively seek to replenish your joy, which is a gift from the Holy Spirit, who provides abundantly rather than in limited quantities.
In John 10:10, Jesus makes a profound statement regarding the nature of life and joy, asserting that while the enemy seeks to steal, kill, and destroy, His purpose is to grant life in its fullest measure. Various translations emphasize this promise of abundance, with the New Living Translation highlighting a “rich and satisfying life,” while the New King James Version speaks of life in abundance. The Amplified Classic version further elaborates on this by indicating that God desires for us to experience life to the overflow. Therefore, it is essential to understand that your joy should not fluctuate between moderate and low levels; rather, God intends for it to overflow. This abundance is not contingent upon external circumstances, prompting a critical reflection on the source of your joy. By identifying what, where, or who constitutes the foundation of your joy, you can effectively recalibrate your emotional state and ensure that your joy meter is positioned in the green, reflecting a life filled with divine joy and fulfillment.
In the Gospel of John, chapter 10, verse 10, Jesus articulates a profound truth regarding the adversary’s intentions, stating that the enemy seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. In contrast, He has come to offer life in abundance. This raises an important question: what exactly does the enemy take from us? The process begins with theft, leading to the extinguishing of hope, and ultimately resulting in destruction. The devil operates within these three realms, robbing individuals of their joy, eradicating hope from their hearts, and when joy and hope are stripped away, life itself can become devoid of meaning. This tactic mirrors the experience of the prophet Elijah, who, despite witnessing God’s miraculous works, faced a moment of despair. Reflecting on your own life, consider the blessings you have received in the past, whether they were years or months ago. In the current climate, where the world grapples with economic instability and widespread anxiety, it is crucial to assert your desire to retain joy, not merely at a baseline level, but to experience it in overflowing abundance.
It is essential to recognize that the enemy’s agenda is to rob individuals of their joy and extinguish their hope, ultimately leading to the destruction of lives. However, during this challenging season, the hand of the Almighty is upon you, your family, your business, and your career, ensuring that your joy remains intact in the name of the Lord Jesus. It is vital not to emulate those depicted in scripture who relied on external circumstances to experience the joy of the Holy Spirit. Such dependence can lead to a narrative akin to that found in Joel 1:2, where the devastation of the land is described, with the grapevine, fig tree, pomegranate tree, palm trees, and apple trees all withering away. Instead, one must cultivate an inner joy that transcends external conditions, allowing for a life filled with purpose and fulfillment, regardless of the surrounding turmoil.
The joy of the people has diminished, indicating that their happiness was intrinsically linked to the vitality of the fruit-bearing trees surrounding them. When one surveys their environment and observes that the sources of sustenance and joy are withering, it raises a profound question: should one’s own joy also diminish in tandem with these external circumstances? The Amplified Translation of John 1:12 poignantly illustrates this sentiment, stating, “The vine is dried up, and the fig tree fails; the pomegranate tree, the palm tree, and the apple or quince tree—all the trees of the field are withered—so that joy has withered and fled away from the sons of men.” This passage underscores the tendency of individuals to anchor their happiness in the abundance of their surroundings, leading to a potential crisis of spirit when those sources appear to fail.
It is essential to reflect on the various aspects of life that serve as our own fruit-bearing entities, such as family, career, friendships, and partnerships. When these vital areas seem to be faltering, one must confront the critical question of whether this should also lead to a decline in personal joy. The prophetic message found in Habakkuk 3:17-19 offers a powerful reminder that even amidst adversity and apparent scarcity, it is possible to maintain a sense of joy. The narrative in Joel 1:12 echoes this theme, suggesting that while external circumstances may be challenging, one can choose to cultivate an inner joy that remains steadfast. Habakkuk 3:17 in the Amplified Classic Translation reinforces this notion, stating, “Though the fig tree does not blossom and there is no fruit on the vine,” highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of trials.
In a manner reminiscent of the sentiments expressed in the biblical passage from Habakkuk 3:17-18, one can observe a parallel situation characterized by adversity yet met with a distinct response. The scripture illustrates a scenario where the olive tree fails to produce, the fields yield no sustenance, and the flocks are absent from the fold, signifying a profound lack of resources. Despite these dire circumstances, the declaration of joy remains resolute: “I will rejoice in the Lord; I will exult in the God of my salvation.” This assertion emphasizes that true strength is not derived from external factors such as material possessions, business successes, or even communications that may bear negative news. Instead, it is the Lord who serves as the source of strength, providing a foundation for joy that transcends the challenges faced.
The essence of this joy is one that flourishes even amidst trials and tribulations.
The prophet’s words remind us that the Lord is not only a source of strength but also a personal source of courage and support, likened to an invisible army that empowers one to navigate through life’s difficulties. The imagery of hinds’ feet suggests agility and the ability to progress through high places, which may represent the burdens of responsibility or suffering. Regardless of the challenges one may encounter—be it a reduction in salary, the loss of companionship, or the constraints of quarantine—there remains an unwavering joy that persists. This joy is a testament to the belief that all circumstances can ultimately work together for good, encouraging individuals to proclaim their resilience and maintain a positive outlook, even when faced with adversity.
It is crucial to recognize that joy can be easily compromised; it may diminish or vanish entirely if one permits it to do so. However, it is equally vital to understand that anything incapable of undermining your joy is also powerless to hinder your progress. As I conclude this discussion, it is essential to grasp the distinction between joy that is shattered by adversity and joy that is cultivated through it. During this period, it is imperative to reflect on the nature of your joy. Is it a joy that crumbles in the face of trials, akin to the experience of Elijah? A single negative message, influenced by malevolent forces, can drastically alter one’s emotional state, leading to despair and isolation, as seen when Elijah, after receiving a message from Jezebel, found himself questioning his purpose and even contemplating his demise.
In this season, I declare that the spirit of despair shall not approach you, and I renounce the grip of depression over your spirit. Instead, I proclaim that you shall be enveloped in the oil of joy and adorned with a garment of praise. It is important to acknowledge that there exists a joy that is fortified through challenges, contrasting with a fleeting joy that vanishes at the slightest hint of adversity. Embrace the joy that grows stronger in the face of trials, for it is this resilience that will sustain you through difficult times and propel you forward on your journey.
In Romans chapter 5, verses 1 to 5, as articulated in the Amplified Translation, the text emphasizes the profound implications of being justified through faith. This justification not only establishes a right standing with God but also grants believers the peace that comes from reconciliation with Him through Jesus Christ, who is recognized as the Messiah and the Anointed One. The passage further elaborates on the access believers have to God’s grace, a state of divine favor, which they can firmly and safely inhabit. It encourages individuals to rejoice in the hope of experiencing God’s glory, while also urging them to find joy in their current circumstances, including trials and tribulations. These challenges are portrayed as catalysts for developing patience and endurance, which in turn contribute to the maturation of one’s character, ultimately leading to a habitual experience of joy.
Moreover, the text highlights that this joy is not contingent upon external factors such as favorable circumstances, financial stability, or personal relationships. Instead, it is rooted in the transformative work of the Holy Spirit and the unwavering assurance of God’s love. This divine love, poured into the hearts of believers, fosters a resilient hope that does not disappoint or lead to shame. The passage invites reflection on the nature of one’s joy, contrasting superficial happiness with a deeper, more enduring joy that arises from faith and trust in God’s promises. It echoes the apostle Paul’s exhortation to rejoice, even amidst adversity, as the trials of faith serve to cultivate patience and strengthen one’s spiritual resolve. Thus, the inquiry into the type of joy one possesses becomes a profound exploration of faith and its capacity to sustain individuals through life’s challenges.
I yearn for a profound joy that transcends the superficial pleasures and circumstances that often fail to yield true fulfillment. This joy must be more resilient than the disheartening news that permeates our media, more steadfast than the turmoil that may arise within my community, nation, or the world at large. I seek a joy that embodies the essence described in the Bible as “joy unspeakable and full of glory,” as articulated in 1 Peter 1:7-8. This passage emphasizes that the trials we endure in our faith are far more valuable than gold, which, despite being refined by fire, is ultimately perishable. It is through these trials that we may attain praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Even in the absence of physical sight, our love for Him remains unwavering, and through our belief, we experience a joy that is indescribable and filled with divine glory. It is essential to recognize that, despite the adversities that may lead us to feel joyless, true joy is rooted in the understanding of our identity in Christ and the profound love and purpose He has for each of us.