Unending Joy
Isaiah 35:10 – and the redeemed of the Lord will return and come to Zion with singing, crowned with unending joy. Joy and gladness will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee.”
Though this verse speaks of a time “yet to come”, I believe that it is filled with strength and hope for our NOW. God has crowned the redeemed with unending and eternal joy even while living amid a world of chaos and often hopelessness.
Many of us have been filled with deep grief and sorrows that have left us weeping when we look back at some of the things we experience. There have been grief, travail, and sorrows that have led to repentance and unexpected losses. Yet, I sense that the Lord is inviting us to come now and receive a crown of unending joy.
This crown will cause our hearts to sing and once again be filled with gladness. It will renew our minds and cause us to see beyond the natural into the supernatural hope, joy, and future that is sure for those who love God and who are called, “His sons and daughters.”
Unending joy is not dependent on external factors such as wealth, success, or worldly pleasures. It is not a superficial happiness that fluctuates with life’s ups and downs. Rather, it is a deep-seated contentment and gladness that comes from knowing and experiencing the love, grace, and mercy of God. This joy of the Lord is often associated with spiritual awakening, enlightenment, and a sense of inner peace that surpasses human understanding. It is believed to be a gift from God, a divine presence that fills the hearts of believers and brings them a lasting and unwavering sense of joy.
How do we access this unending joy?
Connect with Spirituality: Explore your spiritual beliefs and practices. This might involve prayer, meditation, attending religious services, or engaging in spiritual rituals that resonate with you. Connecting with a higher power or the divine can bring a sense of transcendence and joy.
• Cultivate a Positive Mindset: Foster a positive outlook on life by focusing on gratitude, practicing optimism, and embracing a growth mindset. Train your mind to see the beauty and goodness in everyday moments.
• Cultivate Gratitude: Practice gratitude by regularly reflecting on and appreciating the blessings in your life. Keeping a gratitude journal, expressing gratitude to others, or simply taking moments throughout the day to acknowledge and savor the positive aspects of your life can enhance your overall sense of joy and contentment.
• Engage in Acts of Kindness: Perform acts of kindness and service to others. Helping those in need, volunteering, or practicing random acts of kindness can create a sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from making a positive difference in someone else’s life.
In conclusion, experiencing unending joy is a lifelong journey, and it may flow depending on life circumstances. Embrace the process of self-discovery and personal growth, and be patient and compassionate with yourself along the way.
God bless you!