Lord Jesus, thank you for the joy that fills our life when we come to know you. Thank you for the fact that it does not depend on our circumstances and is not the same as happiness. You tell us to be joyful in all circumstances, but you also tell us that there will be trials and tribulations that will not make life easy or happy.
Thank you that joy is an underlying condition that is dependent upon being in right relationship with you. Thank you that being in you brings joy into our life regardless of our circumstances. I pray that when we experience the absence of joy our first response would be to seek you and uncover anything that separates us from you. Thank you that you are the only source of true and enduring joy.
Lord, we know that sorrow will come but we also know that it will not endure. Sorrow dissipates quickly when our trust, hope, and faith are in you and not our circumstances. Joy comes from focusing on what is eternal and all you have done to enable us to overcome the pain of the world. May we value you above all else and glorify you in the way we respond to whatever comes against us.
Lord, your word says that for the joy set before you, you endured the shame and pain of the cross and are now seated on the throne of God. May we keep our eyes on the joy set before us, knowing that when life on earth is over we will abide with you for all eternity. May we endure all things as we keep our eyes on you, the author and perfector of our faith.
Jesus, you are our hope and redemption. You have paid the price for our sin so we can dwell in your presences forever. Keep our focus on you so that we abide in your joy this side of heaven.