The Greatest Joy: Understanding the Joy of Salvation
Who experienced the greatest joy, and when, and why?
The Father (Isaiah 53:10)
Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)
When and where? At the cross.
Why? To help us return to Him forever.
The Father joyfully bruised the Son. The Son willingly accepted the bruising for the joy set before Him. What the Father and the Son experience, the Holy Spirit experiences too. Our salvation brings the greatest joy to God, and the Holy Spirit helps us enjoy that salvation with Him.
The Joy of Salvation
King David sought the restoration of the joy of salvation in his life (Psalm 51:12). He deeply valued the joy that came with walking with God. His sins had separated him from God for a season — as seen in his account with Bathsheba — yet his heart longed to return.
The source of his joy was God Himself. King David delighted in God's presence, and his cup always overflowed with joy whenever he meditated on or sought the Lord (Psalm 23). God has since sent the Holy Spirit so that our rejoicing is not merely an overflow, but an eternal one.
Dear child of God, do you enjoy the presence of God? In His presence there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11).
The Spirit of Joy
Without the Holy Spirit, we would easily break down amidst the evil and chaos of the world we live in. He continually renews godly joy in us as we learn to set our affections on things above (Colossians 3:2). Jesus is the joy of all the earth.
Joy in Tribulations
Paul endured much, yet remained joyful through every trial (2 Corinthians 7:4). His joy was not circumstantial — it was rooted in Christ and sustained by the Holy Spirit.
Joy in Hope
There is joy in hope (Romans 12:12). Our waiting season is not a dreaded one. It is an eager, loving anticipation of His appearing. Soon, our joy will be made complete when we meet Jesus in the air.
Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.
