The Christian owes it to the world to be supernaturally joyful. In this day of universal apprehension when men’s hearts are failing them for fear of those things that are coming upon the earth, we Christians are strategically placed to display a happiness that is not of this world and to exhibit a tranquillity that will be a little bit of heaven here below. All this takes for granted that sin has been dealt with by sincere repentance and thorough amendment of life. It assumes that we are walking in the light of truth, for true joy cannot be artificially induced.
The “keep smiling” school of applied psychology is not even remotely related to the true faith of Christ. The chief fun of the comedian and the good humor of the wit who is the life of the party are like flowers growing on old graves, briefly interesting, but evanescent and always touched with sadness. But the fountain of Christian joy flows out from the throne of God, pure, refreshing and sweet everlastingly.
It was Tertullian who said that the Christian saint is hilarious. The closer one comes to God, the more joy is experienced. Joy based not on circumstances or passing emotion but the joy of the Lord that comes from knowing Him.
[A.W. Tozer]
John 15:11 ... These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
2 Timothy 1:4 ... Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy;
Romans 14:17 ... For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.❤
