The Lord is alive and desires to lead us through the ever-changing—and often challenging—circumstances of this fallen world. Obviously, we can only do so much in our human strength—we are limited. Yet, this reality does not lead us to despair; instead, it becomes the very foundation of our joy.
In the midst of fragile hope, when life presses in on every side, the Lord’s strength comes to rescue us. We can all relate to seasons where we feel stretched in faith, burdened by the weight of decisions, and weary in the waiting. Delays and struggles are a part of life, but God has promised to provide what we lack in those moments—revealing His strong right arm that brings deliverance and restores joy to our souls. The Lord is working on our behalf, and He is powerful!
As I continue learning about the joy of my salvation, I find myself longing to go deeper. Joy is priceless—it anchors my soul and keeps my focus on God’s faithfulness and His ability to save, sustain, and guide me into His purpose.
Because of God’s love and faithfulness, the Israelites sang songs of joy as they followed Moses through the Red Sea toward the Promised Land. Later, joy filled them again as Joshua led them across the Jordan River and into Jericho, where they witnessed the mighty power of God. What once seemed impossible became a testimony of His goodness and deliverance. Joy marked their journey, and the people worshiped the Lord.
The joy of our salvation is found in Jesus—not only in being rescued from sin and death, but also in being filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. We are not just delivered; we are empowered. Empowered to live differently. Empowered to reveal the presence of the Lord within us. Empowered to proclaim His goodness.
Whether we reflect on God’s faithfulness in the Old Testament or the New Testament accounts of Christ’s resurrection, we see that joy is the proper posture of the believer. From the empty tomb, Jesus instructed Mary Magdalene, “Go find my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” In that moment, sorrow was overtaken by purpose, and purpose overflowed into joy. Victory was already secured.
Mary became the first joy-filled witness and evangelist of the risen Christ—a reminder that when we encounter Jesus, we are called to go and tell. Joy is not meant to be contained; it is meant to be shared.
Psalm 118:14–17 (NLT)
14
The Lord is my strength and my song;
he has given me victory.
15
Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly.
The strong right arm of the Lord has done glorious things!
16
The strong right arm of the Lord is raised in triumph.
The strong right arm of the Lord has done glorious things!
17
I will not die; instead, I will live
to tell what the Lord has done.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for saving us from sin and death. You are our Deliverer. Teach us each day to live in obedience to this truth. Remind us of Your strength when we feel weak, empty, or uncertain. Empower us by Your Spirit to recognize Your goodness at work in and around us, and guide us as we serve You. Fill us with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Today, we choose joy because we trust in Your faithfulness. You are alive, and we desire to tell others what You have done in our lives. Grant us holy boldness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.