Isaiah 61:3
“To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”
Have you ever known Christians who look like they have been baptized in vinegar? Let’s get a little more personal: Do YOU sometimes look or act like you are awash in a vat of vinegar? If Jesus is our joy (and He is!), we need to let our faces show it.
Please stop right now and read today’s Scripture once again. Do you notice anything interesting? Let me assist you: Beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. In the physical world this seems to be out of step with reality. In God’s economy these reactions should be the normal way of thinking and acting.
Immediately the question arises, how do I go about making a change in my way of thinking? How do I get the joy of Jesus as the hallmark of my life? To me the answer seems to be quite simple. It is taking our eyes off of our selves and keeping them on Jesus. Fall in love with Him all over again. Instead of asking what He can do for us, ask what we can do for Him?
Have you found that joy in Jesus? Start immediately! Take time to get alone with Him and thank Him for everything He has done for you. Let His love sweep you off your feet!
May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – – Pastor Cecil