For in the midst of an ordeal of severe tribulation, their abundance of joy and their depth of poverty [together] have overflowed in wealth of lavish generosity on their part (2Cor. 8:2) (AMP).
“Joy is not gush; Joy is not jolliness. Joy is simply perfect acquiescence in God’s will, because the soul delights itself in God Himself. “I delight to do Thy will,” said Jesus, though the cup was the Cross, in such agony as no man knew. ..” (Springs in the Valley, p. 163).
I had the most wonderful hour the other day. I spent it talking and praying with strangers. They came through the doors of the food pantry in need. We filled their arms with bags of food, but before they could exit I was given the opportunity to meet them and ask if they needed prayer.
I don’t think I’ve had that much fun since riding a roller-coaster at Six-Flags! The Living Water was bubbling up through me. When I prayed for those who knew Jesus, it was as if we had known each other for a long time. Our eyes clicked, our hands clinched, and we prayed to The One we Adore. Our eyes were fixed on the unseen. We prayed for His Kingdom come and Will be done in their lives here on earth as it is in heaven. And we promised to keep this reality in perspective with our eyes on the prize- heaven. We talked of thankfulness and looking outside of the box for God’s answers to our petitions. And we were blessed.
Oh it was fun…and I was rich. This was joy that knew no limits.
I am convinced that giving to others fills our joy tanks like no other thing can. These people had nothing to give me. And all I was giving them was my time and my prayers, but the joy was unspeakable. Giving them food was a blessing, but giving them Jesus made my heart soar.
If you’re having a bad week, go serve food in a soup kitchen, pray for those who come to a food pantry, call someone you know who is sick and needs a friendly voice on the other line. We all can do something. Out of the depths of our poverty, our service to others, our generosity will fill our hearts with joy. It’s the economy of God’s Kingdom. Give Jesus and He will be given to you!
Much love,
andy
Today’s Scripture: Eph. 2:4 Copy it down. Write down what it says to you.
