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Women in Discipleship (sm)
Weekly Devotionals 2005
Week 38
Continually it seems there is one obstacle or another that threatens to rush in and try and steal the attribute of joy in my life. Today is not exception. As I struggle through yet another circumstance in my life I realize that this is not necessarily unique or unusual.
Scripture to ponder: 1 Thessalonians 1:6 "And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the Word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit." (NKJV)
I like what John MacArthur says about this passage. "Joy in the midst of suffering evidenced the reality of their salvation, which included the indwelling Holy Spirit." (Commentary from John MacArthur Study Bible, page 1843 Thomas Nelson Publishing)
My present difficulty is hard and sorrowful yet rising from this difficulty I see above a Light and Hope and within my soul I can experience joy because the Holy Spirit is my comfort and prayer supporter and pleader on my behalf.
More and more the Christian life becomes a daily testing. Christ Jesus knows. Paul walked this path. So many of you also walk this pathway as well. Yet in a way I can't explain I know that all is well because Jesus and the cross and the empty tomb and all those witnesses who have gone before have also walked this pathway.
Paul shares later on in his letter these words: "For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God." 1 Thessalonians 3:9.
Who in your life are you thankful for with joy? I delight to be thankful for you dear one ... with joy! To the glory of God or Savior Jesus Christ.
Have a blessed week filled with His Joy!
Sandra Davis and the Women in Discipleship team
(Refer to 1 Peter 1: 6-9 for further study)
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