[296 words]
Do you want good medicine during this time when we are hearing negative things – especially about the coronavirus and its spread throughout the U.S.?
Right now, many people are having trouble – not with the disease – but with the effect it is having on our nation. Jobs are being lost, retirement portfolios took a major plunge, people are having cabin fever and there is the loneliness of being out of contact with our friends. Personally, I deeply miss the fellowship of our congregation.
As I reflected on these issues, I came across this message from our God: “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22, ESV).
So, to upbuild ourselves, may I suggest the following to increase your joy?
Understand this testing with produce good things. Among them will be perseverance (James 1:2-3). Pro-athletes know that to be the best they can be, they must exercise until it hurts. The testing of our faith is our exercise and the outcome is strength to face any trial.
Spend time singing to the Lord. Sing songs of joy. If you don’t have a songbook handy, simply google “upbeat gospel hymns lyrics.” Many will appear. Singing joyful songs to God will increase your joy (Isaiah 12:6; Psalms 27:6).
Whenever you trust God to get you through any trial you will “overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).
Do something nice for the less fortunate. It will be a good work and God’s joy will give you strength (Nehemiah 8:10; Philemon 1:7).
Know that if we remain faithful to God during this and all other trials, the outcome is ultimate, never ending joy (1 Peter 1:8-9).
Larry Fitzgerald
Woodlawn church of Christ
Abilene, TX