When was the last time you laughed for the sheer joy of your salvation? People are not attracted to somber doctrines. There is no persuasive power in a gloomy and morbid religion. Let the world see your joy and you won’t be able to keep them away. To be filled with God is to be filled with joy. Anonymous

The Joy of the Lord

With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.

Isaiah 12:3

 

Wells were very common in Bible times and are still in use in some countries today. They provide water for those who thirst and are a lifeline to people who live in dry, arid places. The wells will never run dry as long as the source of groundwater continues to flow into it.
The word this morning likens a well to salvation. Just as a water well gives life to our earthly body, so a well of salvation gives eternal life to our spirit.
When we are thirsty we need a bucket to draw water from the well to quench our thirst. Likewise, when we are born again in Jesus, we have access to a wellspring of joy and peace but we need to learn how to draw from this supernatural source.
It is important to remember that our joy is not dependent on circumstances but on knowing that Jesus is our Lord and Saviour. Paul and Silas were beaten and put in prison for proclaiming the name of Jesus but they did not complain or feel defeated. Instead, they used the opportunity to praise the Lord and be a living testimony to the prisoners, telling them of the Lord’s grace and mercy. This brought not only joy to their hearts but also freedom from their chains, and salvation to the Philippian jailer. Through praise and thanksgiving, we can draw from our wellspring and our faith will be strengthened by the joy of the Lord.

Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. Habakkuk 3:17-18

 

As we meditate on this word, let us praise Him in all seasons and proclaim the goodness of the Lord. As we believe and trust in Him, out of our hearts will flow rivers of living water.

Dear Lord,
I thank You for this day and the promise that You have given me. Sometimes the circumstances of the day weigh me down but today I will trust You and praise You so that Your joy will fill my heart, overflowing to touch others. Amen.

God bless you,
Theo and Manju