🌟 Devotion: Morning Joy
Opening Scripture:
"These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full." — John 15:11 (KJV)
Joy, in the biblical sense, is not a mood—it’s a miracle. It’s not the absence of sorrow but the presence of Christ. The world offers joy like a balloon: bright, floating, and easily popped. But the Spirit of Christ offers joy like a wellspring—deep, enduring, and flowing even in drought.
Some people suffer every day. Some carry the weight of chronic pain, the ache of loss, or the silence of unanswered prayers. The loss of a child, the unraveling of a dream, the long nights of grief—these are not light burdens. And yet, scripture reminds us: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” (Psalm 30:5). Sometimes that “morning” feels far off. But it comes. Not always with fanfare, but with the quiet presence of God whispering, “I am with thee.”
Consider Hannah in 1 Samuel. Her sorrow over infertility was deep and bitter. She wept, she prayed, she poured out her soul before the Lord. And in time, God restored her joy—not just through the birth of Samuel, but through the intimacy of her trust in Him. Her story reminds us that joy is not found in the outcome—it’s found in the outpouring. As we talk to Him, cry to Him, and trust Him, joy begins to rise.
Paul and Silas sang in prison. David danced after defeat. Jesus, “for the joy that was set before him,” endured the cross (Hebrews 12:2). These were not moments of ease—they were moments of eternal perspective. Joy is not a denial of pain; it’s a declaration of hope.
To continue in joy is to choose trust over despair. It’s to say, “God, I don’t understand, but I believe.” It’s to pray through tears, sing through sorrow, and walk through valleys with the assurance that He walks with us. Joy is not a mask—it’s a miracle born of communion.
Let’s teach this to our children, model it in our homes, and carry it into our communities. Whether we’re crafting coloring pages, writing devotionals, or simply living faithfully, joy should be the undercurrent. Not forced smiles, but Spirit-filled gladness. The kind that sings even when life is hard.
Closing Scripture:
"Rejoice evermore." — 1 Thessalonians 5:16 (KJV)
Thought of the Day:
Tears may endure for a night or a season, but God will restore our joy as we talk to Him, as we cry to Him, as we trust Him.
Chosen Bible Reading:
📖 Psalm 126:5–6 — “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”
Closing Prayer:
Lord, You see every tear and hear every cry. Thank You for the promise of joy that comes not from circumstances, but from Your Spirit within us. Help us to continue in joy, even when the night is long. Teach us to trust You, to talk with You, and to lean into Your presence. May our lives reflect the hope and gladness that only You can give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Susan Barker Nikitenko August 8, 2025© BENBANNABMBPMKBPBRMNM987678%
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