Then, for Spurgeon, another source of joy is knowing that we have been reconciled with this God and, even more so, that we are now part of His family. There are relationships that fill and change our lives. There are relationships that make us privileged. Being a child of God is not just about being a child of God, but also about knowing it deep down.
There is also a joy that comes from the certainty of the constancy of His love for us, from the assurance that all our lives we will be the happy beneficiaries of His goodness;
“a small spoonful of communion with Christ is enough to sweeten an ocean of tribulation… The habit of communion is the assurance of a life of happiness”. . a joy that comes from closeness to God; the honor of serving Him is also a source of joy.
Joy is a sign of spiritual vigor; it protects against persecution; one who is filled with this joy can afford to endure some ridicule. The Christian filled with joy is ready to give up everything for the God who gives him everything, and does not even see the sacrifice. He is protected from temptation because he already possesses much more than could be used to tempt him.
I am struck by these lines written by Spurgeon, in his inimitable style, a man who himself experienced depression, where he gives this description of this joy-filled believer:
“He is independent of men and angels, and fears no demons. All may, if they wish, turn against him, but since God Himself is his great joy, he will not regret their love or weep over their hatred. He stands where others fall. He sings where others weep. He wins where others flee. ...”
More joy, Father. May your path be filled with joy.
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