The essence of joy in the Christian context, particularly as exemplified by Jesus, is explored in depth, distinguishing it from mere happiness. Happiness is often fleeting and dependent on external circumstances, while joy is a profound, enduring connection with God that transcends life's challenges. This joy is rooted in a relationship with God and is characterized by a deep sense of peace and purpose.
In John 15:11, Jesus expresses a desire for His joy to be in His followers, indicating that true joy is linked to fulfilling God's will. This joy is not just an emotional response but a state of being that can fill one's life completely. Jesus's life exemplifies joy through surrender and obedience to God's purpose, as seen in John 6:38, where He states that He came to do the will of the Father. This surrender leads to a transformative joy that offers peace even amidst pain and hardship.
The concept of joy is further elaborated through the metaphor of a garden, where worry acts as weeds that choke the growth of joy. Worry can suffocate the joy that comes from trusting in God, while the illusion of control disrupts communion with Him. Letting go of control and trusting in God's plan allows joy to flourish, akin to a river flowing naturally rather than being forced in a specific direction.
To cultivate joy, one must prioritize a relationship with God through practices such as prayer, meditation, and regular worship. Trusting in God's plan and surrendering worries are essential steps in this process. As individuals deepen their relationship with God, they discover a joy that is not dependent on circumstances but is grounded in His unchanging love.
Living joyfully in Christ not only uplifts the individual but also positively influences others. Authentic joy has a magnetic quality that inspires those around us, creating a ripple effect of positivity. Joy breeds encouragement and can spread through a community, inspiring others to seek their own joy without the need for words.
The fulfillment of joy is intertwined with the joy of Jesus, offering a continuous stream of happiness, hope, and purpose. This joy is a promise from Jesus, inviting believers to partake in the same joy He experienced. It is characterized by connectedness to Jesus, a purpose-driven life, and an overflowing joy that grows as one deepens their relationship with Him.
Barriers to experiencing joy include worry and the illusion of control. Worry can block the joy that comes from trusting in God, while the desire to control life’s circumstances can create tension and disconnect from peace. Recognizing these barriers empowers individuals to take steps toward a more joyful existence, emphasizing that joy is something to be cultivated rather than chased.
The impact of living a joyful life extends beyond personal fulfillment; it creates a broader influence on the community. Joyful living aligns individuals with a fulfilling life purpose that supports personal growth and benefits those around them. By becoming vessels of living water, individuals can share Christ’s joy through encouragement, acts of service, and sharing personal testimonies of God’s impact in their lives.
In conclusion, embracing the joy of Jesus transforms daily experiences into profound moments of connection and fulfillment. This shared joy, deeply embedded in love and compassion, calls individuals to reflect upon and spread the essence of Jesus’ teachings. The journey toward joy involves seeking it in personal faith and sharing it with others, ultimately shaping interactions and guiding life’s path.
Directing our energy towards dwelling on past grievances and the perceived unfairness of life can severely limit our capacity for growth and personal development. When individuals exhaust their mental and emotional resources on thoughts of how they have been wronged, they inadvertently hinder their own progress and potential for positive change. It is crucial to recognize that investing time and energy in negative emotions and rumination leaves little room for constructive pursuits and self-improvement. To truly thrive and advance in both personal and professional spheres, it is essential to redirect our focus towards productive actions and positive mindsets that foster resilience, adaptability, and growth despite life's inevitable challenges and setbacks. By shifting our perspective and channeling our energy into constructive endeavors, we empower ourselves to overcome obstacles, learn from experiences, and cultivate a mindset conducive to ongoing success and fulfillment.
The wounds we carry remain raw for years, hindering any chance of true healing. The pain we've endure becomes a constant burden, weighing down our spirit and clouding our vision of a brighter future. These emotional scars act as barriers, preventing us from moving forward and finding closure. The invisible wounds run deep, affecting our every interaction and decision. Over time, the unresolved hurt festers, perpetuating a cycle of suffering and stagnation. It takes immense courage and self-awareness to confront these wounds head-on, to acknowledge their existence, and to begin the process of genuine healing. Only by facing our pain with honesty and vulnerability can we finally start to mend the broken pieces of our soul and find solace in the possibility of renewal.
To set aside our resentments and hateful attitudes, we must first acknowledge our role in perpetuating them. It's easy to passively wait for the other person to make amends, but true growth requires looking within ourselves. Take ownership of the bitterness that weighs heavy on your heart. Reflect on the reasons behind your feelings and consider the impact of holding onto grudges. Understand that forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but a strength that liberates you from the chains of animosity. Embrace empathy and compassion, recognizing that everyone is fighting their own battles. By letting go of past grievances and choosing understanding over resentment, you pave the way for healing and genuine connection in your personal and professional relationships.
Moving forward, taking charge of our own healing is crucial. Instead of allowing our enemies to hold power over us, it is empowering to choose to let go and focus on finding peace through prayer and reflection on scripture. By seeking forgiveness and learning the art of granting forgiveness ourselves, we pave the way for true healing to manifest within us. This deliberate shift in mindset not only liberates us from the grip of our adversaries but also allows us to reclaim control over our emotional well-being. It is through this intentional practice of self-care and spiritual growth that we can truly break free from the chains of resentment and move towards a path of inner peace and restoration.
Seeking joy and peace in Christ involves surrendering all cares and anxieties to Him and embracing His yoke (1 Peter 5:1-11). It requires a willingness to deny oneself, pick up one's cross, and follow His path (Matthew 16:24-26). By fully embracing this responsibility, one can experience the true essence of His love and guidance, finding solace and purpose in the journey of faith. It is a profound commitment that leads to a profound transformation, shaping one's perspective and priorities in alignment with His teachings. This dedication to seeking Christ's joy and peace is a powerful force that can bring clarity, resilience, and fulfillment to one's life and career.
In our pursuit for a meaningful existence, our focus transcends mere retaliation; our true aspiration lies in cultivating a life teeming with purpose and love for ourselves and those closest to us. Redirecting our energies towards this noble cause is paramount. Let go of vengeful impulses and embrace the richness of a rejuvenated life. Let healing permeate every fiber of your being, allowing you to forge a path illuminated by fulfillment and genuine contentment.
As we begin a new year, we desire to improve our talents—by the patience of hope and the labor of love. We all have hope. . . . Hope emanates from the Lord, and it transcends the bounds of this mortal sphere. Paul noted that “if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” (1 Corinthians 15:19). Only with an eternal perspective of God’s great plan of happiness can we ever find a more excellent hope. . . . Have you heard the old statement that “hope springs eternal”? It can only be true if that hope springs from Him who is eternal.
Nelson, Russell M.
Daily Joy: A Devotional for Each Day of the Year (p. 16). Deseret Book Co. Kindle Edition.
Romans 15:13 offers a beacon of enduring hope in a world filled with uncertainty and fleeting sources of happiness. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." This scripture invites us to look beyond the temporary and embrace an eternal perspective.
Understanding God's grand plan of happiness provides us with a deeper, more lasting hope. Unlike worldly comforts that wane, hope rooted in the eternal nature of God's promises grounds us in unwavering joy and peace. It's only through this eternal perspective that we can navigate life's challenges with a more excellent hope, one that transcends the here and now.
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
~ James 1:1-4, KJV ~
There is an important concept here: patience is not passive resignation, nor is it failing to act because of our fears. Patience means active waiting and enduring. It means staying with something and doing all that we can—working, hoping, and exercising faith; bearing hardship with fortitude, even when the desires of our hearts are delayed. Patience is not simply enduring; it is enduring well! ~ President Dieter F. Uchtdorf - April 2010 ~
"You don't know what it is like to be homeless!"
He sat there blankly staring at me. "You don't know what it's like being homeless!" He quickly looked away. Shame in his eyes.
"I'm sure I understand what it is like being homeless." A soft response to a harsh statement. "It was not easy for me. Nor do I believe it is easy for you or others that are experiencing homelessness."
For a moment, he simply looked at me with another blank look in his eyes. "I don't really think you do." He paused and sucked in some air. "I think you're just blowing smoke up my ass!" He gathered his things, shoved them into his pockets and scurried away.
I wanted to speak with the gentleman more. Share a cup of coffee with him. A hot meal. Share my story with him about my own personal struggles and experience with being homeless. Would he, or anyone for that matter, take the time to really listen to my story? We all experience significant trials in our lives. Looking back on those years I spent as a vagabond and dealing with my own personal demons helped me understand something I wished I had understood then. Be patient and vigilantly faithful to God.
Between mid-1990's to early part of 2000, I had experienced homelessness numerous times. Either being asked to leave a place I was living at, having lost employment and not able to pay rent, or various other reasons. Much of my homeless stint was around Bellevue and Seattle, Washington area. I've stayed at local Churches with a group of others who were homeless as well. Stayed at shelters, lived out of a pickup truck, a Mazda 323, etc. The last time I experienced homelessness was when I was left in Seattle and given $50.00. All I had was a backpack, pair of work boots, 3-cartons of Carnival Cigarettes, and a couple of day's worth of clothes.
It was the lowest point in my life. Sense of confidence and resilience - gone. Most depressing time of my life. What did I do and How I managed to survive even surprises me today. One thing my father taught me was to work hard no matter what the circumstances were. He always worked hard to provide for his family. Despite his health issues.
So, I had found a day labor hall. I showed up every day and was sent out. The kicker was, I still had no place to live. And, with only making $50.00 per day - there was only enough to get a simple meal, a pack of smokes, and coffee. When I was not working, I pretty much walked all over Downtown Seattle - daring not to lay my head down. I also attended some of the community meals that were offered at various locations. If I was able to afford the $5.00 cost to stay at a shelter, I would. Then, someone told me about a transitional housing program that helped people. I was able to get connected. Within that week, I made my call and was informed that a bed opened up. I was able to get in.
For the past week to almost two weeks, I had little sleep. Suffering sleep deprivations, thirsty, stressed. I pretty much looked liked death warmed over. Slowly, I rested and followed the program and was able to get back on my feet. This was the last time I had experienced homelessness in my life. Since then, I have made significant progress in my life.
Count it all joy when you fall into various trials
What the heck does this mean? How do we find joy when faced with trying circumstances? One of the stark contrast of true authentic Christian faith and that of a False profession of faith is determined by trials. Real genuine, and practical, faith is sustained by joy and patience. The First Century Christians (Jewish and Gentile) were experiencing external and internal sufferings and difficulties. Some of these were:
Oppression by those of wealth and affluence
Dissension due to lack of self-mastery and control
False teachings
Inappropriate and possible vulgar speech
Favortism and self-promotion and ambition
These same struggles and difficulties abound within the Christian community and within the secular society. Faced with these challenges, the author of James utilizes Hebraic wisdom traditions and teachings. Coupled with the principles of Wisdom - one will also find the letter treating the subject of Ethics and social justice.
To understand what it means to find joy - we must understand the nature of suffering and adversity. In the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20; and Luke 8:4-15) we read the parable of the sower.
Understanding Not
In the interpretation of the parable of the sower - Christ expounds to his disciples the meaning. The first is that regarding the seed that fell on the wayside and being snatched up quickly.
When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. ~ Matthew 13:19, KJV ~
Sometimes, we may hear something. It may be an inspirational spark. However, it is quickly taken away by the cares and worries of this world. A person lacks understanding and not able to cultivate real faith. Their joy in life appears to be diminished quickly. And hearing something is not the issue. Allowing it to take root is at issue. Our lack of understanding, faith, joy, and patience has no foundation and is easily snatched before it is able to secure itself within our hearts and minds.
Easily Offended
The second part of the parable is where Christ expounds on the seed that fell into the stony places.
But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.
~ Matthew 13:20-21 KJV ~
In the NASB, the word anon is changed to immediate. This is keeping with the Greek context. Here, the seed does take root. However, it is not able to fully root itself in the ground. Our faith may be immediate. Our joy may be even received with great enthusiasm. However, when life happens - we falter and become offended. Our faith and joy diminishes - so does our patience with God. We become easily offended and angered.
Joy and patience comes when we hear and understand. Through our trials, we bear real fruit of our faithfulness to God. We persevere and endure. Our faith grows and becomes a well-spring of blessings.
Selfish Pride and Ambition
The third part of the parable deals with those who appear to blossom and do well. They may appear to be quite successful. Yet, at what cost?
He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. ~Matthew 13:22, KJV ~
Without a genuine and authentic relationship with our Heavenly Father - our faith is weakened and choked by the cares of this world. We prefer the accolades of men rather than submit with humility to a divine and providential God who shows us mercy and grace. We strive to prove ourselves to the world that we are something. There is great success - yes, but to what cost? How many have relied on deceitful tactics and manipulations to attain their status? Faith, Joy, and Patience are choked and the person has no fruit of righteousness, love, or compassion.
Genuine Faith, Patience, and Joy bear real fruit
The final aspect of the parable that Christ expounds upon is that of the seed falling on good ground.
But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. ~ Matthew 13:23, KJV ~
Joy and patience come when we hear and understand. Through our trials, we bear real fruit of our faithfulness to God. We persevere and endure. Our faith grows and becomes a well-spring of blessings. Through our joy and patience - our faith strengthens us, and we become resilient. It is how we choose to respond in those times where we face our trials.
The term "count" simply means to consider. It has to do with what you choose to do with what is presented to you. In context, the issue is what to do when bad things happen. When a person is confronted with suffering, he or she can choose how to respond. Some might "count it injustice," that is, they may consider it to be unfair and they will respond accordingly. Some might consider it to be the judgment of God and therefore despair that God is angry with them or has turned against them. Others might count or consider it an opportunity to demonstrate their own resilience. They might determine to fight back and overcome in their own strength. When trials come, the way we respond is more important in determining the outcome than the actual trial itself.
The consideration is given over to our power and ability to choose how to respond in trying circumstances. Quite easy to find joy when we are experiencing good things. Yet, when pressed down by the storms of life - we are far from wanting to experience joy. Yet, that is our Christian virtue. To find joy in life. Experience joy.
Ligoiner Ministries shares this insight in their devotional: Counting it All Joy:
In order to count earthly afflictions joy, we have to be able to take into account the future. Sometimes a Christian’s hope for heaven is ridiculed in our day. The lost mock those whose lives are characterized by hope. But sometimes this is all we have. When our lives are filled with sorrow and grief, we must be able to look to the future—to heaven—to find the joy that can soothe our troubled souls. Our joy must be based on looking to God and to the inheritance we will receive in heaven. This is exactly what Jesus did. He was able to endure the cross because of the joy that was set before Him (Heb. 12:2). We, too, must realize that the suffering we endure in this life cannot compare with the joy that is laid up for us in heaven.
See, our joy does not come from the people around us (while they may have a great influence to our sense of joy). Nor, does our sense of joy come from the things we strive to attain, or the accolades of men (and there is nothing wrong with setting goals and accomplishing them). No, our greatest since of Joy comes from our Heavenly Father, through His Son, Jesus Christ, and bestowed upon us by the power of the Holy Spirit. When we walk in obedience to God - we are walking in enduring faith, trusting in Him and in His guiding hand and divine plan. I have come to realize that it is not my happiness that was at stake. It was my sense of joy and how I needed to live and grow in faith.
It took a really long time for me to come to terms with this simple, and yet, practical truth. See, I had this false bravado ideal understanding that my own sense of worth. My own sense of power. My own sense of freedom and fun. My own sense of belonging was diminished by other people. I invested in other people to help me feel happy. It took a lot of energy and effort to do everything in my power to simply get some sympathy and admiration. Blaming other people out of my own angry disposition fell flat. My life was fruitless. What I thought faith was really was no more than a weak-minded immature individual who failed to root himself into the good ground of faith.
Every season that I experienced homelessness, was because of my lack of faith in God. How I got through most of it was only because of some aspect of cunning resourcefulness. Unfortunately, it never created an enduring and longevity of stability. I thought there was joy and happiness. However, it was mostly riding the merry-go-round and going nowhere fast.
Breaking Pride and Ego was the only way for me
Shipwrecked. That is probably the best description for how I felt the last two times I've experienced homelessness. Prior to this, my experience was merely a "here we go again. Ain't my first rodeo!" Why? Because my faith and trust were only in my own sense of resourcefulness. One learns how to quickly adapt and make do in the course of dealing with a revolving door of facing the same trials. However, it started weighing down that something was not working. No matter the effort put in. I kept missing something. I really wanted to get off the merry-go-round. End the cycle, and for once in my adult life have some type of stability.
Attending an Assemblies of God Church, I had permission to park my Mazda 323 in the parking lot. Clothes in one bin. Books in another. I'd go to work at a day labor. Work with a buddy of mine at the time. And, when we were off, we'd head out to get something to eat, hit up the library, engage in some online debates, and then pal around to have a few drinks. Fridays or Saturday nights, we'd hit up the Karaoke place. Life wasn't really all that bad right? Well, I complained about how unchristian some of the Christians were.
I possibly can't fathom how I lived in a compact car like this for about a year
In fact, one of the gentlemen that I had become acquainted with helped me get hired on as the janitor of the Church. I no longer had to go to the day labor place. Stable employment and still living in my car. Today, I possibly can't fathom how I lived in a compact car for about a year.
As I worked, the gentleman would also come around and speak with me. One night, he listened to my ramblings and rantings. He paused. Then, he said something so profound that it angered me at first. I was not able to respond to it. All I remember was how angry I was in that moment.
"Tim, I believe I know what your problem is." He paused as I drank my coffee and smoked a cigarette. "You feel entitled that all those people that come to Church owe you something. That it is their Christian duty..."
I attempted to interject with my doctrinal and scriptural prowess on this. He continued.
"The reality is this - no one owes you anything. The only person who owes you something is yourself. "
I finished up my janitorial duties that night. I walked from the Church to my parked car. Seething mad and angry. Thoughts racing like a hamster on a wheel. Climbed in, laid the seat back, and mulled over what he said. This is probably one of the few times I've heard that audible voice. Not the typical feel good still small voice. A firm and audible voice.
Look where you are at right now. Who's responsible for being where you are right now?
Nothing quite likes a powerful inquisition to bring you to a place of sincere humility. He was right. Most of my life was spent focusing on what I believed others could do for me. Entitled to their kindness, compassion, and generosity. When it did not happen - or, when it failed to meet my unrealistic expectations did, I slip and become resentful. Bitter. Arrogance and pride were dashed against the harsh jagged rocks of reality.
My faith in God became real. However, it took another bout of homelessness to shake my world upside down. It was how I ended up in Seattle. It was another real encounter with how I needed to choose. All I know is that I really placed my faith and trust in God. To this day, I am still uncertain how I made it through a week to a week and a half with little to no sleep. Working and focusing on following God.
However, little by little, I was led out of homelessness. Worked to rebuild my life and to secure a more stable and right way of living. Am I perfect today? Not by a long shot.
What it took, on that night in early 2000, was the breaking of my own ego and pride. Because sometimes the trials of our faith really are to test us to see if there really is any genuine faith. Otherwise, it is mere profession of faith and when we face those times of difficulty, we lack the understanding and wisdom in how God will guide us through.
Trial of Faith works Patience
One thing I have learned is that when faced with difficult circumstances - there is a needed response. From the Christian perspective, our response is to be patient and rely on God's divine and providential will. This is expressed numerous times throughout scripture. This does not mean we sit down and do nothing. It means we stand with a resolved intent and purpose in seeking God's divine direction and counsel. Placing our concerns, worries, and anxieties on the alter. Consistently, and with contrition and humility, pray and meditate on what course of action we may need to take. Sometimes it calls for our faith to be tried when people mock us. Speak in vain toward us. Discourage us. Sometimes, it is dealing with the loss of employment, loved one, family pet, freedom, or even housing. Sometimes, it is dealing with getting older and health related issues that may come our way.
Whatever the circumstances are - we face trials every day. Our faith in God gives us the strength we need to withstand the storm. It is our faith in God's divine and Sovereign grace and mercy that gives us the ability to be patient.
Patience may well be thought of as a gateway virtue, contributing to the growth and strength of its fellow virtues of forgiveness, tolerance, and faith.
Robert C. Oaks - October 2006 General Conference Speech
Patience undermines our need for instant gratification. However, we live in a society filled with instant messaging services, instant photos, social media, accessible and instant information through the internet. Growing up, one either had to wait until they got home to make or receive a call. Wait for the letter to come in the mail. Wait for the daily newspaper to be tossed onto the front porch. Or wait until one got home to watch the evening news.
Robert C. Oaks - Patience may well be thought of as a gateway virtue, contributing to the growth and strength of its fellow virtues of forgiveness, tolerance, and faith.
"The lessons we learn from patience will cultivate our character, lift our lives, and heighten our happiness." President Dieter F. Uchtdorf speaks at the Priesthood session of the April 2010 General Conference. Read the entire talk
If we are ever going to grow and mature in our relationship with Heavenly Father - we must learn to be patient. The natural tendency is to want our circumstances to be removed quickly so that we lessen the blow of suffering. Yet, if this were a possibility - think of what one may miss out on.
What I have learned is this: I had to get my heart and mind right with God. See, I was operating under a profession of faith. Meaning, I believed in God. However, as with the parable of the Sower, my faith dwindled with the cares of this world. My faith was snatched up right away before it could ever take root. And there were times when my faith did take root, however, it was shallow and became scorched and not able to bear any fruit. Today, I do my best to faithfully rely on God in all that I do. Unfortunately, I still struggle with pride and ego. The antidote to this spiritual dilemma is understanding what it means to live a more mindful and spiritual life within the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The stripping away of pride and ego also meant dissolving unrealistic expectations on God, others, and myself. It meant that I had to become completely emptied out and cleansed in order to be filled with newness and hope.
In one conversation with a patient, I likened the process of recovery to that of a cup full of dirty water. It does not matter how much you empty out the dirty water. The entire cup is still filthy. So, whenever you fill it, the water will still be dirty and disgusting.
...I felt the Spirit of God ask me: "How often do YOU try to get away with cleaning the OUTSIDE of YOUR cup?" It was then I looked at this verse as a verse for me. How often do I pretend to have it all together, how often to I make my outside look nice, all the while my insides are screaming with pain, or sin. I talk a lot bout authenticity because it's important, but have I been listening to my own sermons, or simply "looking like it"? ~ Marv Nelson - Cleaning Your Cups ~
In condemning the religious leaders - Christ had something to say:
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
Matthew 23:25-26, KJV
My profession of faith was more of an outwardly expression of how I wanted to be seen and thought of. It was not until realizing that the inside of me was still full of filth and grime. What needs to happen is that the cup needs to go through the process of cleansing before it is able to be filled and used. This takes faith and patience because of Christ's infinite atonement. We may be redeemed and justified before God. However, our work begins by cleansing ourselves of ungodliness. We endure. As our faith increases, so does our ability to become resilient. Spiritual maturation does not happen overnight. It takes work. It takes obedience.
Made Complete, Perfect, and Lacking Nothing
It is unimaginable to reach a place in mortal life where an individual proclaims they are complete, perfect, and lack nothing. Yet, a handful of scriptures ask that we are made complete, perfect, and lack nothing. James simply makes the statement as a blessing that occurs once our faith is tried, and we endure those difficult times.
One thing is true - scripture does not mislead us in false hopes and desires. And here is how I have come to understand this within my own life and experience - especially experience of being homeless and lacking stability. Furthermore, it is the idea of understanding our own inadequacies in life.
In the book Refuge Recover - A Buddhist Path to Recovery from Addiction, we read this entry.
We are all born into bodies that are ruled by a survival instinct that is out of harmony with reality. The normal state of human beings is a sleeplike state of Non wisdom. The evolutionary process of human beings is dictated by a natural desire to live and to pursue happiness. But our survival instinct, which influences the body and mind, is really just the unrealistic expectation that life is always pleasurable and never painful. Our bodies naturally crave pleasure, which we think equals happiness, safety, and survival. We hate pain, which we think equals unhappiness and death.
Refuge Recovery The Cause of Addiction Is Repetitive Craving, p. 11
In our natural state - we desire anything that brings pleasure and happiness. Anything that removes happiness from our lives appears to be a threat and we do everything in our power to manipulate and extort to bring about our own sense of happiness. It is the external attachments we perceive to be the root of either our happiness or misery. If it is something that brings misery, something that is challenging, something that is difficult: we don't want anything to do with it. Root of our ongoing suffering is not only our attachment to our need to control. Our root of suffering is attached to fear of our own inadequacy and potential loss.
What I personally believe James is relating to us is that we are made complete and perfect in Wisdom. Scripture speaks about wisdom numerous times. In the Serenity Prayer, one seeks wisdom regarding knowing when to accept things we are not able to change, and the courage to focus on changing those things we are capable of changing. Proverbs says that our wisdom begins when we fear the Lord and that the knowledge of the Holy is understanding.
According to Hebrews for Christians website, we understand that this means:
The word translated "fear" in many versions of the Bible comes from the Hebrew word yirah, which has a range of meaning in Scriptures.
One of those meanings refers to:
... it can also mean "awe" or "reverence". In this latter sense, yirah includes the idea of wonder, amazement, mystery, astonishment, gratitude, admiration, and even worship (like the feeling you get when gazing from the edge of the Grand Canyon). The "fear of the LORD" therefore includes an overwhelming sense of the glory, worth, and beauty of the One True God."
What is also interesting to note is how yirah may be linked to the word for seeing:
When we really see life as it is, we will be filled with wonder and awe over the glory of it all. Every bush will be aflamed with the Presence of God and the ground we walk upon shall suddenly be perceived as holy (Exodus 3:2-5). Nothing will seem small, trivial, or insignificant. In this sense, "fear and trembling" before the LORD is a description of the inner awareness of the sanctity of life itself (Psalm 3:11, Philippians 2:12).
As we face our struggles. Navigate difficult seasons in our lives, we are gaining a greater sense of awareness of how God sees us. Faith and patience gifts us with greater insight in our own sense of adequacy. From our struggles, we gain greater sense of worth. We also gain a greater sense of freedom because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the infinite atonement. Patience works when we live our lives devoted to God. The power of wisdom influences how we make decisions in the face of adversity.
Here is what Dr. Alex Lickerman, M.D. says about the power and influence wisdom has on our lives:
Wisdom is so powerful, in fact, that it can even put a halt to suffering without changing the circumstances that cause it ... Most of us deem a problem solved when it no longer confronts us, but from a Nichiren Buddhist perspective a problem is solved when it no longer makes us suffer, our escaping or overcoming oppressive circumstances representing only one particular means to that end.
The Undefeated Mind: On the Science of Constructing an Indestructible Self, p. 21
Hence, when we begin to rely on God. When we begin to see life for what it really is - and the beauty that abounds - we begin to stand in reverence and awe of our Heavenly Father. He created us for a purpose. This mortal existence has a definitive meaning and purpose to it. Without suffering, there is no joy. Without adversity there is no growth.
What is it that we are made perfect and complete - where we lack nothing?
Know that without sorrow we are not able to experience joy
I believe that these are the things we are made perfect and complete. Principle truths that give us a sense of worth, freedom, fun, and a sense of belonging. Through our struggles - we grow and mature in our faith.
Do I know what it is like to be homeless? To face the struggles of not having a place to rest? To feel drained and exhausted day in and day out? The overwhelming shame and guilt? Unequivocally yes!
A seasoned captain does not know how to navigate a ship in still and calm waters - he learns how to navigate in the midst of raging tempests
James 1:1-4 teaches us the simple and practical truth. That through our faith, patience helps us endure suffering, and the wisdom we gain helps us make the necessary changes and adjust according to the circumstances. Yes - it is true. In the storms of life, we do not have the power and authority to change the tempest. We are empowered to adjust those sails.
We learn about God. We learn about ourselves. We learn about our stalwart faith and patience because of the storms of life. Without these tempests. We have no opportunity for growth.
As you go throughout this week, turn your thoughts and minds over to those difficult times in your life. How did you fare? Were you prone to manipulate, exploit, and use the situation for your own grandiose desires and sense of fulfillment to create happiness? Or have you come to the reality and humbly sought after God with awe and reverence to learn and grow from those storms?
Maybe you are experiencing an insurmountable storm in your life right now. Circumstances weighing you down. Pressing upon you and there seems to appear no relief in sight. Fear only God and trust in Him and He will guide you through the storm.
I pray this has helped you. Inspired you. Challenged you. Please leave a comment and share your insights in how you've grown in your faith through those storms in your life. Share what you are struggling with so that we may be able to pray with you. And feel free to share this with others. Do not forget - your donation helps keep this website up and running to provide devotionals, Scripture studies, and essays.
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousness's are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Isaiah 64:6, CF Romans 3:19-23
The term utilized in the passage of Isaiah refers to the particular cloth that was used to clean up from the woman's menstrual cycle. Such imagery is not for the palatable and feeble minded individual. Yet, it holds significant truth as it relates to the human condition. Despite our own efforts, good will and desires, we still remain stained and filthy. This is particularly true when people enter into recovery. Many want to get their life back on track, stop using and stay clean, and not use anymore. And, when it comes to recovery and sobriety, there is no joy to be experienced. Only pain, emotional distress, vulnerability, raw sense of shame and guilt, grief and loss, and inability to manage one's own life.
However, there is hope through Jesus Christ and His infinite and divine atonement. This is where the heart of our joy comes from. And it is the heart of how we move toward experiencing lasting joy in our lives as we engage in recovery and maintain an active and sober lifestyle. But first, we must get ourselves cleaned and experience what that may look like for ourselves.
What does it mean to be clean?
How one answer's this question is entirely up to them. Generally - the best way to respond to this is through what Neil L. Anderson shares in his book The Divine Gift of Forgiveness. He describes a childhood memory of going with his father and getting a steer that had wandered off and eventually was hit by a vehicle. Anderson described what it felt like when he came home and showered:
I went back to the house. ... I remember clearly the satisfaction of removing my shirt. Peeling off each layer of clothing brought relief. I began washing - first my hands, then my arms to the elbows. It was not the kind of dirt that would disappear quickly. Then I showered, first washing the ears, then the hair, back to the hands and fingernails, and to the hair again. It was some time before I felt satisfied that the cleansing was done.
Anderson also shared:
Slipping into a clean pair of pajamas, I lay awake in bed for a while reliving the experience, but the feelings of tiredness did not approach the sensational satisfaction of being washed and clean.
Anderson transitions his thoughts toward the sacredness of spiritual cleansing that occurs through the atonement of Jesus Christ. The removal of the sin that stains our souls surpasses any formal understanding of joy one may experience. He recounts the parable of the Prodigal Son and how it relates to the nature of the healing power found in Christ's atonement.
We experience joy as the love of our Savior assures us that we can yet be clean, that we will one day be home again. This happiness comes only through repentance.
The Divine gift of forgiveness p. 11; Anderson, N. l.
Seeking forgiveness and engaging in the repentance process is at the heart of early recovery. It sets the foundation and tone for how we maintain long term sobriety. We first, must peel off all the layers of our false beliefs, expectations, thoughts, emotions, and strip ourselves of who we believe ourselves to be - whether an addict or an alcoholic - in order to move forward toward personal growth, transformation, health, and wellness. Without engaging in the process of repentance and forgiveness, we will inevitably revert back to what we are: filthy rags that are easily discarded.
I, personally, am able to relate to what Anderson shared about his experience with the shower and how refreshing it is to feel washed and cleansed. Many times, have I spent working in the grime, dirt, and getting filthy. Coming home, exhausted, tired, smelling raunchy, and all I wanted was to get cleaned up. The feeling of how the water splashes and washes away the dirt and grime, the stench going away, and stepping out of the shower with a sense of renewal. Even such an experience pales in the comparison of truly feeling cleansed and forgiven by the Lord and experiencing the power of the atonement.
Turn and be healed
Christ's infinite atonement does more than washes us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. It heals us. Anderson quotes 3 Nephi 9:13-14 and Alma 36:19-21.
Many times, we see Christ interact with those who are experiencing leprosy, deformities, and other ailments. His commands always included some action that was based on their faith. To the one who had a deformed arm, Christ requested he stretch forthhis arm (see, Matthew 12:13). To the person unable to walk since birth, Christ asked him to take up thy bed and walk (see, John 5:8-16). There was a specific call to action.
For those in recovery, Christ is asking for you to -
Return to Him
Repent of your sins
Be converted
In order to be healed. We have to take the steps. There are some Christians who may disagree with me on this. However, in recovery, we have to do the work necessary to bring our sins, our shames, our guilt, our distressing emotions to the alter and offer them up to God in order to receive forgiveness and healing. We are called to repent of those things we have done wrong. Without true and sincere repentance, we may not fully experience the joy and forgiveness that Christ offers us.
Another concept here is that we are to turn away from our old way of living life. Without turning away from the active substance use, the people that may continue to enable us and support our continued use, an individual is never truly ready to experience the joy of recovery and sobriety. Seeking after forgiveness, through sincere and heart felt repentance means we are willing to turn our lives over and around in the direction of where our Heavenly Father desires for us to go.
This reminds me of the story of Naaman in 2 Kings 5. According to 2 Kings, Naaman was considered a mighty man, a person of valor, yet suffered leprosy. When the Prophet Elisha encountered the captain of the Syrian army, the request was for Namaan to go and wash in the river Jordan seven times in order to be healed of his leprosy. At first, Naaman refused. However, as we read, he reluctantly followed Elisha's instructions and once he completed this - he was healed of his leprosy:
Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean. 2 Kings 5:14, KJV
Many of us are like Naaman. We have a condition that is not culturally acceptable (due to social stigma). To be told we must do something in order to experience being cleansed and healed causes grave consternation. We want a more simplified solution. Yet, we eventually come to our own Jordan River and follow the requests on cleansing ourselves.
Eternal Promises are Provided
One simple truth that many fail to understand is that there are eternal promises attached to our own personal redemption, forgiveness, and healing. This is true in recovery as well as in spiritual rebirth. However, it is a process that takes time. This is the reason for the effectiveness of the 12-steps. They may be recommendations and suggestions. However, one does not stop at step 12 and say - I am done and now I'm clean. We go back and look at and continue to peel off those layers. Our spiritual maturation requires we continue to take a fearless and courageous moral inventory, seek out forgiveness as we walk in forgiveness toward others.
Anderson shares this insight on how these eternal promises are provided:
Repentance is the perfect spiritual remedy for sin. Each sin we leave behind through our faith in the living Christ - both those of commission and those of omission - opens spiritual doors.
He continues:
We must be converted to daily repentance. Jesus provided an example of daily prayer: "when ye pray say ... forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil."
This daily walk in humility, as Anderson shares, is a way Our Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ and the power and authority of His Holy Spirit, reveals to us our own personal weaknesses. This is the part where we engage in self-discovery to understand who we are. Even those weaknesses and areas that need to be let go and given over to God. It also requires us to walk in true honesty and transparency. After all, God sees and knows all. Nothing can be hidden from Him.
Repentance and Forgiveness - the birth pains of healing in recovery
There is no doubt that when we fully come to our own personal Jordan River, it is not without pain and suffering. These are only the birth pains to feel the depth and breadth of Christ's infinite atonement in healing. And it is something that we are committed to engaging in.
Bringing into the world a new life is painful. Ask any mother who has given birth to a child. Yet, ask them if it was worth going through the process of enduring the pain and most likely the answer will be a resounding yes. How is that? The simple answer is the joy experienced when that newborn child is placed in the mother's arms for the first time. The joy of knowing how precious that child's life is.
In recovery, we are birthing a new life for ourselves, and it is painful. Ask any person who has established a healthy and long-term sobriety from their active lifestyle if it was worth going through the painful early stages of recovery and they may respond with a resounding yes. That does not mean they enjoyed the process. Yet, the outcome, the healing, the new life experience surpassed all the pain endured in those early days.
It all begins with being honest with us and with God. It also requires that we honestly listen to the still small voice as it reveals to us those character defects we may want to work on.
So, what does it mean to be clean? It means we take our time. We endure the painstaking process of peeling away those grimy character defects. It means we take our time and focus on thoroughly washing ourselves. To be clean means we experience the fullness of joy that comes through our sincere repentance and forgiveness of sins that is only through Jesus Christ alone.
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