FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 14:15–17: Yet if your brother is grieved because of your food, you are no longer walking in love. Do not destroy with your food the one for whom Christ died. Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
“Righteousness”’ in this verse means to be right with God; it means a life lived well–pleasing to Him. “Holy Ghost” apparently goes with righteousness and refers, not to our standing, but to our walk—we are to walk in the Spirit. It is practical rather than theological. “Joy” is the fruit of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. Unfortunately, it is often absent from the lives of believers. There should be joy in our lives. This doesn’t mean you have to run around smiling like a Cheshire cat, but it does mean you are to have a joyful feeling deep in your heart. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Philippians 2:3
JOY has been described as Jesus – Others – Yourself. That is a wonderful way of remembering the right priority for right living in the power of the Holy Spirit.
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
A joy-filled life is a life filled with the joy of Jesus.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; Colossians 1:10–11
Dear Father, may my walk please You, as I experience more of Your powerful grace.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (Romans 9-16) (electronic ed., Vol. 43, pp. 104–105). Nashville.
