The Spirit gives us joy (1 Thess. 1:6).
Reflection:
Biblical joy is vastly different from fleeting human happiness, which is entirely dependent on favorable, stress-free circumstances. The joy given by the Holy Spirit is a highly militant, defiant fruit that thrives even in the darkest of times. Even in the midst of severe affliction, personal tragedy, persecution, and trial, the Spirit supernaturally sustains a deep, unshakeable joy within the believer that completely baffles the unbelieving world.
This militant joy bears undeniable, powerful witness to the superior reality and the sustaining power of the kingdom of God. When we can genuinely rejoice while facing a terrifying medical diagnosis or financial ruin, the enemy is completely disarmed, and the world is forced to acknowledge that our faith is real. Choose to actively engage this militant joy today. Defy the stress and frustration of your present circumstances by loudly and extravagantly praising the King who holds your future.
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, I ask that You would fill me today with Your militant, defiant joy, which is entirely independent of my present circumstances. Let this supernatural joy sustain me through any severe affliction, trial, or frustration I might face.
I choose to actively defy the stress of this world by loudly and extravagantly praising my Eternal King. Let my unshakeable joy completely baffle the darkness and bear undeniable witness to the superior reality of Your kingdom to everyone around me. Amen.