Bible Ballistics: BBs #223 A Fortnight Of Thanks-Living #13

I thank God for His joy.

“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine:

but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”   Proverbs 17:22

There is a lot of talk today about “natural” medicine. Naturopathic medicine is in the upswing, natural remedies are sought after, and healthier lifestyles are all buzz words of the day. Scripture tells us there is a great medicine that God gave us for our good, and that’s laughter and a merry heart. And while I think we ought to seek natural things in our life, we could do so much for ourselves if we’d just keep a light heart, eyes fixed on Jesus and a spirit of joy and laughter within.

While the rule of success in “real estate” is “location, location, location”, the rule of successful living in Jesus is “attitude, attitude, attitude”!!! If we’ll all simply work on our own “attitude” and maintain that “merry heart”. What does it mean to have a merry heart? Well, I’d rather state what a merry heart is NOT! It’s not a flippant attitude that laughs at everything. It’s not an attitude of denial, which doesn’t live in reality. It’s not an attitude of ridicule toward others or laughing when your heart is broken. Rather it’s a heart that is draws it’s strength and confidence from God.

“………… for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10

Our strength is found in His joy. Joy in KNOWING the God of the universe, and trusting to HIS faithful provision and love for us, displayed at Calvary. Not just a “pie in the sky” dream for tomorrow, but a down-to-earth trust in the sovereign rule and ultimate victory of our God over SIN.

“To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion,

to give unto them beauty

for ashes,

the oil of joy

for mourning,

the garment of praise

for the spirit of heaviness;

that they might be called

trees of righteousness,

the planting of the Lord,

that he might be glorified.” Isaiah 61:3

God’s glory displayed in us, because we have His Spirit within us empowering us to live with HIS peace– and that my friends, produces joy which works in life, so we can:

“Be careful for nothing;

but in every thing

by prayer

and supplication

with thanksgiving

let your requests be made known

unto God.

7 And the peace of God,

which passeth all understanding,

shall keep your hearts

and minds

through Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:6-8

 

“THINK ON THESE THINGS”— a merry heart and an attitude of gratitude will reflect the peace of God. And when you are at peace with God—you can rejoice today!