Joy In Doing What Is Right
Joy In Doing What Is Right | December 6, 2024
Several channels and streaming services feature Christmas movies in the lead-up to December 25th. Many of these films depict characters who initially come across as selfish but ultimately discover the true spirit of Christmas and become kind-hearted. Whether it's Ebenezer Scrooge or the Grinch, the Christmas season offers even the most negative individuals a chance to find joy in doing what is right. This perspective is not a new concept. Scripture consistently urges and teaches us to choose righteousness, emphasizing the joy of such a decision. For example, Psalm 106:3 says, "There is joy for those who deal justly with others and always do what is right."
It's essential to recognize that doing what is right includes how we treat others. In the larger context of God's plan, being unkind like Ebenezer Scrooge or having a negative attitude similar to that of the Grinch will ultimately lead to loneliness and misery. On the other hand, showing honor and humility while actively helping others will bring about the spiritual blessing of joy.
Joy is a deeper sense of happiness; happiness arises from our circumstances, while joy comes from Christ. For instance, while we may face difficulties, we can find joy in knowing that God is faithful to guide us through the dark nights of the soul (James 1:2-3.) Doing what is right fosters an emotional and mental strength that human effort cannot create.
Ultimately, joy is a choice. People may try to provoke us, and thoughts of revenge can easily consume our minds. Our natural inclination may be to respond harshly, but that's not what God desires. The best path for believers is to act in a way that aligns with God's will. As you make these choices, trust that God will bless you with a joy that rises above your frustrations and conflicts with others.
Often, God will put these "people tests" in our lives because there is a greater trust of service coming. Isaiah 1:17 says, "Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows."
Always remember that there is a bigger picture with God, especially when you are doing the right thing!
It's essential to recognize that doing what is right includes how we treat others. In the larger context of God's plan, being unkind like Ebenezer Scrooge or having a negative attitude similar to that of the Grinch will ultimately lead to loneliness and misery. On the other hand, showing honor and humility while actively helping others will bring about the spiritual blessing of joy.
Joy is a deeper sense of happiness; happiness arises from our circumstances, while joy comes from Christ. For instance, while we may face difficulties, we can find joy in knowing that God is faithful to guide us through the dark nights of the soul (James 1:2-3.) Doing what is right fosters an emotional and mental strength that human effort cannot create.
Ultimately, joy is a choice. People may try to provoke us, and thoughts of revenge can easily consume our minds. Our natural inclination may be to respond harshly, but that's not what God desires. The best path for believers is to act in a way that aligns with God's will. As you make these choices, trust that God will bless you with a joy that rises above your frustrations and conflicts with others.
Often, God will put these "people tests" in our lives because there is a greater trust of service coming. Isaiah 1:17 says, "Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows."
Always remember that there is a bigger picture with God, especially when you are doing the right thing!
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