The Paradox of Joy
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Do you agree that joy has it’s beginnings in grief?
“Rejoice in the Lord always! I will say it again, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)
Paradox: a statement or belief contrary to received opinion, especially one that is incredible, absurd or fantastic.
“…true joy often is hidden in the midst of our sorrow, and the dance of life finds its beginnings in grief.” (Henri Nouwen in Here and Now)
Only to those who have experienced the discovery of joy “hidden in the midst of sorrow” does the paradox make sense. The Apostle Paul describes God’s peace as “beyond all understanding” and joy in sorrow is closely akin to such peace. How could Paul, imprisoned for his faith, write words like “I always pray with joy” and “Rejoice in the Lord always…I will say it again, rejoice!” How could the hymn writer pen, “It is well with my soul” after the death of his four daughters?
I believe the simple – though never simplistic – answer is found in the words of Charles Wesley:
Rejoice, the Lord is King! Your Lord and Kind adore;
Mortals, give thanks and sing and triumph evermore.
Jesus the Savior reigns, the God of truth and love;
When He had purged our stains, He took His seat above.
Rejoice in glorious hope! Jesus the Judge shall come,
And take His servants up to their eternal home.
We are told in the New Testament to “fix our eyes on Jesus” and herein, I believe, lies the key to joy. When we consistently focus on Jesus – even in the midst of sorrow – we slowly begin to believe that He reigns, He cannot fail, He is the God of truth and love and then, we rejoice in glorious hope.
Father, I don’t like pain and sorrow, but help me see that no tears are wasted in your sight. Help me keep my eyes on Jesus.
Questions: Why is it hard for you to rejoice in difficult times? Why do you think Christians can experience joy in the midst of sorrow? The Apostle Paul says that we are not to be anxious for anything but to bring everything in prayer to God. What do you think is the relationship between choosing not to worry and experiencing joy?
This week memorize (Philippians 4:4 – 7) and journal any changes that occur in your life.
About the Author Marilyn J. Ehle
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You know what’s so awesome Amber, is that the Love of God is real. His forgiveness is true. Because His Son’s Blood was shed, a brand new day of mercies are ours. Scripture tells us not to laugh at a righteous man (or woman) who falls because that one shall rise up again!
Encourage your heart that you are loved, that you are forgiven, the past is behind you and a new day has begun.
I’ve learned Amber, to hold on to that Love that promises to never leave me. Hold on to Him that declares nothing could separate you from His Love.
Learn the life lesson from that mistake and get up in the power of His Love. Go boldly before His throne of grace and expect to receive directions, guidance from Him Who chose you from the foundation of the world.
Be blessed Amber – Jeremiah 29:11 is an awesome “anchor” to hold onto!
It is often hard for me to rejoice in difficult times as I question why? Why now? I don’t understand?
I think the relationship between choosing not to worry and experiencing joy is based off personal experience… Last Friday I felt as if my life was in shambles, I was strugging to see a way out. After visiting for hours with a dear friend who helped me more than she probably even realizes, I felt calm… I finally accepted that what was done, was done, I can’t change the past, so if I continue to worry about every little detail, i’m going to fall into a low spot again. After I accepted this, I felt joy, I felt a sense of peace. I know that God loves me, has forgiven me for my past mistakes & i’m confident He has a bright future planned for me. Even though I still don’t understand why i’m in my current situation, I know God will reveal His plan for me when the time is right.