September 26, 2023
Adrian Rogers
Scripture Passage: John 15:11
The life of a Christian is to be a life of continual, contagious joy; Adrian Rogers says, “Joy is not a nicety in the Christian life; it is an absolute necessity.” The fullness of joy is essential to winning the lost to Jesus Christ and bearing life’s burdens. The joy of the Lord is our strength. It is how we are able to face the heartaches and trials of life.
John 15:11 says, “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.”
When we put our faith in Him, we don’t just get a cheap imitation of His joy—we get all of it. Remember, joy is not happiness; it does not depend on outward circumstances, but on Jesus Christ, who never changes. Joy does not remove the pain, but it helps us bear it.
Adrian Rogers says, “Joy is not the subtraction of problems from life; joy is the addition of power to meet those problems.”
We are able to rejoice always, as Scripture implores us to, because the joy of the Lord will not leave in the dark times. This joy is steadfast in sorrow, triumphant in tribulation, lasting in losses, and abundant in affliction.
John 15:5 reveals the secret to joy is abiding in Jesus, living a life of surrender and dependence upon Him. Like a branch relies on a vine for its life and fruit, we rely on Jesus for this joy. John 15:9 says, “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love.”
We can rest in knowing that His love and His power are continuous. And when we obey Him, our obedience will be made manifest by the fruit we bear.
The joy of Jesus gives our lives meaning. When we abide in Him, we experience the fullness of joy.
Do you abide in the Lord Jesus Christ? Do you rely on and rest in Him? Consider the joy in your heart today; is it evidence of a life of obedience?
