Over the years that which brings the greatest joy changes. While a child’s greatest joy might be Christmas, that same time someday might be seen as a period of great stress in dealing with presents and making sure everyone is remembered. Later a child’s greatest joy might be an award at school or scoring the winning points in an athletic contest.
For a teen it might be getting a driver’s license or that first car. It might be the graduation from school or acceptance at a particular college. It might be participating, even as a fan, as the school team wins at the local, regional or state level.
I saw this list years ago which attempted to show the many facets of what might bring joy to different individuals: to an athlete it might be a gold medal; to a contestant the right answer; to a bride or groom the wedding day; to a parent the birth of a healthy child; to a grandparent a special call expressing love; to a builder an edifice; to a worker a cherished promotion or raise; to a politician a winning vote; to a surgeon recognition of great skill; to a teacher great FCAT scores by students; to a runner the finishing of a marathon; to a climber the ascent of a mountain and to a writer the finishing of a book.
Now think for a moment about what brings you spiritual joy. Do you know the joy of learning new truths; of seeing someone baptized; of seeing the lost restored; of singing praises to God; of communion; of soul-winning; of seeing young people making right choices; of prayer; of thanking God for answers to specific prayers; of taking quiet time to spend with God; of reading the Bible; of helping another share a problem; of sharing your problems with another; of visiting those who are sick or aged; of giving sacrificially; of teaching children in Bible classes; of work parties at the church building; of seeing a need at church and volunteering to fill the need; of setting up or cleaning up after a church gathering; of going out of your way to greet visitors; of Cornerstone meetings; of giving unexpected praise; and of “washing the feet” of a “Judas” in your life?
What brings joy? Apostles rejoiced they were worthy to suffer for Him (Acts 5:41). Paul rejoiced at sacrificially serving others (Phil. 2:17). John’s greatest joy was knowing his children walked in the truth (3 John 4). Christians will rejoice to hear, “Enter into the joy of the Lord” (Matt. 25:21).
So what about you? What today would bring you great joy? Make your own lists. Look at the lists above. What would bring you the most joy today? Have a truly happy day! Think!