Joy of the Lord

Have you ever experienced that amazing phenomenon – coincidence? At least some of my friends and family believe in that. I personally have experienced “God-incidences” many times over the years. Most recently, I studied a few lessons, heard several sermons, got some advice from a friend, read a devotional, and woke from a sleep with one activity I felt I had to do --- all on the same topic. Then, to top it off, a scripture and song came into my head for support. No way! Is this not the Holy Spirit coordinating the message that I cannot ignore? Yes, I believe it wholeheartedly!



This particular message was about ‘the joy of the Lord”. As I read about the deep joy the apostle Paul had --- in all situations, I began to see the pieces fit together. I remembered the warning of scripture: Don't let others steal your joy; don't let Satan steal itl



Yet, I must self-evaluate: Do I rejoice in the Lord always? In every situation? Do I maintain joy, the hook that will bring a non-believer in to the boat? Does it fill me up and spill over like an overflowing glass? Do I make a difference in people’s lives because they see the joy in the Lord and the trust in the Lord? Can I “rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice” even in the tribulations? Again, I say rejoice.


When my death comes, I hope joy is one of the things most remembered about me, next to a faith that drew people into a relationship with our Lord. In the meantime, I hope the Lord sees joy in my life and in my worship – a pleasing aroma that rises into the air. And, I hope that I never take these combined incidences for granted!

The song “The Joy of the LORD is my strength” runs through my mind a lot.
It is important to keep that JOY, even through the struggles of this life. 

                                                 To God be the glory.                                  Helen


10 Nehemiah said to the people, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10 (my underline.)

Old Friends

Not too long ago, I connected with three of my college roommates. I hadn’t seen one for over 30 years. I loved the dynamics of that meeting. Basically, we sounded the same, but my eyes deceived me, because we looked so much older! The talkers were still chatty. The quiet ones were still more quiet than chatty. We were reminded very quickly that we each still had certain quirks. The most amazing thing to me was our immediate pick-up-where-we-left-off relationship! We told each other of our losses over the years, our victories, and our families. Our senses of humor flowed like they always had. We still fit in the group like we always did.


Yesterday, I visited with a past partner in ministry who retired several years ago. Once again, I was amazed at how comfortable the relationship still is, even though we only see each other once a year.

What is it about God that allows this phenomenon?  I stepped away from God years ago for a bit, and when I returned, it was just like I never left. He welcomed me with open arms. Sometimes, I think I still drift away a little. Yet, when I come running back, He embraces me.

I must check myself. Do I embrace the returning friend who hurt me or ignored? Do I let new people into my circle? Do I make them feel as comfortable “as an old pair of shoes”?  What is this phenomenon of God’s and do I try to duplicate it?


                                                   Glory be to God.                                 Helen

“Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.” Joel 2:13