Christian Joy: The Essence of Faith
In the journey of faith, joy accompanies us as a precious companion—a sweet and delightful passion that arises from apprehending and feeling God’s goodness. Let us explore the essence of Christian joy and its transformative power.
The Nature of Joy
Joy opposes sorrow. While sorrow perplexes and casts down the heart, joy eases the mind, exhilarates the spirits, and brings comfort. It is not mere imagination; rather, it is rational and grounded in the tangible experience of God’s love and favor.
The Source of Joy
True joy flows from feeling some good. When the Sun of Righteousness arises upon the soul, it makes a sudden alteration. Just as springtime transforms the face of the universe—birds sing, flowers bloom, and fig trees put forth their green figs—so the soul rejoices under the golden beams of God’s love.
Joy in Troubles
Joy stupefies and swallows up troubles. It lifts the heart above adversity, like oil floating above water. Moreover, joy acts as both a cordial and an antidote. It provides present relief to sad spirits and guards against the fear of impending danger.
The Promise and the Spirit
Christian joy draws sustenance from two sources:
- The Promise: Faith lies at the breast of God’s promises, extracting the quintessence of joy. As the bee seeks sweetness from a flower, so faith finds delight in the comforts distilled from the promises.
- The Spirit of God: Often referred to as the “Comforter,” the Spirit drops golden oil of joy into the believer’s soul. Whispering the remission of sin and shedding God’s love abroad, the Spirit infuses infinite joy and delight.
Seasons of Divine Joy
God grants divine joy in various seasons:
- The Lord’s Supper: As the soul approaches Christ in the Lord’s Supper, it may come weeping but departs rejoicing. Just as guests were anointed with ointment and kissed at feasts, God anoints His saints with the oil of gladness and kisses them with His love.
- Union with Christ: When our union with Christ is perfect, our joy shall be full. Tears will be wiped away, and sorrow will cease.
Conclusion
Christian joy is not a fleeting emotion; it is the sweet essence of our faith. May it continue to uplift our hearts, strengthen our resolve, and turn our mourning into melody.
This is a summary of the full sermon found here: Christian Joy by Thomas Watson
