Joy

Psalm 4:7

Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound. 

Someone passionately preached that Christian life is very lonely because the road to Christian life is very narrow, and only a few walk on it. As Christians grow spiritually mature, the lonelier it gets. Have you subscribed to such oversimplified narrative?

What does the Scripture teach about Christian life? Christian life can be very challenging adventure. Christians should be dependent on the Holy Spirit of God to have love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, humility and self-control. Loneliness is never included in the list of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. It is possible that anyone could be dismayed when expectation is betrayed. And, the Lord encourages us in Isaiah 41:10, 10Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

When Christ promised to give fullness of life to believers, he did not promise the absence of loneliness. He did not promise that Christian life will always be pleasure and laughter. Jesus Christ personally experienced betrayal from his friends, relatives and disciples. But still, he instructed in Luke 24:46-4946The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48You are witnesses of these things. 49I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.

Anyone may feel lonely. Loneliness is reality that we cannot deny. And, God promised to send his Holy Spirit to empower believers in Jesus Christ. Pray to be filled and empowered by his Holy Spirit to overcome the attack of loneliness. And, when you sense joyful peace from the Holy Spirit, and you are inspired, then testify of his transformational work in your life.

Lord Jesus, fill and empower me with your Holy Spirit.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published.