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!
Posted in Attitude
Recent
Archive
2025
June
God's Forgiveness And Our Failures Faithfulness And Flag DayFollowingPraying About Panic And PainEncouragement Is Necessary Oh, Be Careful Little EyesGod's Promise To Those Who Wait | June 19, 2022 Protect Your TorchTrust God To ProvideGod Is Our Mighty Fortress Kindness CountsAre You Weakening Your Conscience?Maintain A Healthy Conscience Show Mercy Even When People Are MeanRelease Control Of Your Circumstances
July
August
September
October
God's Miraculous PowerYom Kippur, The Jewish Day of AtonementWaiting On God For DirectionTrust God, Not Your GutWinning The Battle Of WorryPrayer Of MosesBlessing of ForgivenessHelp From HeavenHandling Family Drama God Is A Dependable Source of Strength Getting In God's PresenceWe See A Battle, The Lord Sees Our Victory | October 20, 2025Discouragement Is Curable Seeking God's Blessing | October 22, 2025Waiting Can Wear You Out God's Timing Is TrustworthyLive By God's Power Give God First Place In Your ScheduleMonday Morning Beliefs God's Promises Help With PanicThink Before You TalkThinking Like A Servant Pursue Good, Not Evil
November
All Saints DaySurrender Your AgendaThink About Releasing Your Stress Seeking God's Peace On Election DayCarry One AnotherServing Behind The ScenesGo On A Walk With God Prayer + Action = Results What To Do When You're Down Thankfulness for Veterans Oh Lord, I Pray, Deliver My SoulBaptism Represents Commitment Don't Take Your Faith And Freedom For Granted Complaining Is Bad For Your Health Do You Have Foot-in-Mouth Disease?Be Wise With Your Words Take The Road That God ApprovesTrust God To Provide Forty Days To Finish WellEnter God's Gates With GratitudeTake Time To Count Your BlessingsBring Encouragement With You On ThanksgivingThankfulness Is A Game ChangerFAITH, FREEDOM AND THANKSGIVINGBlack Friday PerspectiveLet Your Reviews Reflect Gratefulness Overcoming Chronic Complaining
No Comments