The Wonder Of Divine Joy Keluarga Allah Daily Devotional October 15, 2017
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THE SOUL 2 Corinthians 8:1-5
TODAY'S RHEMA 2 Corinthians 8:1-2 "Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2 that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality."
Severe trial and extreme poverty. These two things were the identity of the people in Macedonia at that time. Even, they had never heard about Gospel neither salvation. It's such a pity. But one night, Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonian standing and urging him to give help. Paul knew it was the Holy Spirit giving him a signal and he responded fast. He went to Macedonia to preach the gospel. The hunger and thirst of the people there made them grasp all the message that Paul was delivering, just like a dry sponge absorbing water near it. They were visited by the Holy Spirit, anointed and experienced transformation. Physically, the change couldn't be seen, but they started to produce the fruit of Spirit in their lives that led them to a great revival in their spiritual lives. Even though they were in hardship, in suffering and poverty, but their heart remained good. Theirs didn't become bitter or angry or disappointed. Even, their hearts were full of thanksgiving and joy. Speaking about generosity, to give to God wasn't a burden for them, but it was an honor to sow in the field of the work of God. Indeed, they needed to manage their finances well.
Divine joy is a grace of God. This joy is different from the worldly joy. The joy coming from God keeps us joyful in trials and hardship. That's the wonder of divine joy. Apostle Paul, Mother Teresa, and Corrie Ten Boom are the warriors of God who had gone through severe trials, even their lives were at stake. However, the joy from God strengthened them to carry the cross until the end.
For some of you, maybe hard struggles, problems, and pressures are filling up your life. Remember, do not lose hope. Rejoice always! Open your heart and receive the joy from the Holy Spirit. Let Holy Spirit sow and grow a seed of joy that surpasses all understanding in your heart. The joy will strengthen us and keep our hearts full of love and thanksgiving. Stay fervent to serve God and to produce fruit for the Kingdom of God. He is God who is very generous, yet for our sake, he became poor, and the One who gave His life to redeem our sin.
REFLECTION Saudara Terkasih, JOY COMING FROM GOD make us STAY JOYFUL in the midst of SUFFERING and HARDSHIP.
APPLICATION 1. Is your heart filled with the joy of the Lord today? Why? 2. Which one lasts eternally: the joy of the world or the joy of the Lord? Which one do you want to have? 3. What benefits do you get when your life is filled with the joy from God? How to get this kind of joy?
TODAY'S PRAYER "My Good Father, please fill my heart with your joy that I could experience the wonder of Your divine joy, that I may win over every problem and struggle in my life. I long to become strong and never give up Christian, to become a conqueror and the warrior of You. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.''
YEARLY BIBLE READING
Deuteronomy 1-2
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