Bearing Fruit through Abiding in Joy

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But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! -- Galatians 5:22-23

As I stepped out the door last week, a warm breeze infused with scents of spring filled my lungs. The fresh air felt refreshing and welcoming, and I breathed deeply wanting more. With every fragrance, flower, and drifting cloud I was reminded of God’s love and faithfulness. The seed of joy planted deep within me seemed to awaken from its dormant state and blossom.

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases... they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23)

I glanced up at the blue sky with wispy clouds and thanked the Lord for His beautiful creation. As I continued walking, I didn’t need my earbuds. The birds provided all the worship music my heart required.

Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5)

The path grew steeper as I climbed a hill, but the effort reminded me how valuable the exercise was, so I pressed on.

Then I rounded a corner and saw what no one wants to encounter—dog droppings, soiled tissue, and scattered trash. Ahead a water release gully smelled foul and was backed up with sludge. Irritation stirred and the ugliness interrupted my joyful stroll. My mind began to dwell on the rubbish left behind by others.

Part of me thought I should clean it up, but I was not equipped to carry someone else’s mess. In that moment, I recognized I cannot carry others’ sins or offenses, or my own for that matter, and still experience the fullness of joy Jesus offers.

Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own. (Proverbs 26:17)

As I continued walking, the beauty still surrounded me, even if “land mines” dotted my path.

An egret perched atop weeds and cattails, basking in the sunlight while waiting patiently for his next meal. Ducks quacked nearby and geese flew over with graceful precision. Life and beauty flourished despite the muck below.

I only needed to look at the land mine long enough to avoid it, then lift my eyes again to “things above.” The majesty that stirred a joyful worship in me remained all around. I simply needed to look up, listen to the birds and let them teach me, lead me in praise, and remind me of how deeply God loves me.

One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. (Psalm 27:4)

I was reminded to dwell, abide in Christ and set my heart and mind on him. If Jesus lives within us, His joy resides there too. Sometimes we need it revealed and restored like David did when he prayed:

“Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation and renew a right spirit in me.” (Psalm 51:12)

Focusing on ugliness around us will blind us to the beauty and joy salvation brings. We must not give negativity permission to rob us of our joy. When we keep our eyes on Jesus and dwell in Him, He gives us the perspective to live joyfully.

And when the Fruit of the Spirit grows evident in our lives, a river of Living Water flows from us, drawing other to the well.

Questions for Reflection:

Love leads to joy that equips us to have peace which gives us the ability to be more patient & kind, full of goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness which is a sign of self-control.

1. How do you see the Fruit of the Spirit in your life?

2. How would taking your eyes off the ugliness of this world and setting your eyes above change your ability to see the fruit in your own life?

3. If you are struggling to find the joy buried in your soul, I encourage you to further your study of joy. Dig deep into scripture to see how to uncover that hidden treasure that comes from our salvation. Here are some ideas to get you started.

For Further Reading on Joy:

Book of Philippians – Paul

Psalm 51 - David

The Joyful Christian – C.S. Lewis

Desiring God – John Piper

Be Joyful – Warren Wiersbe

Pure Joy – R.T. Kendall

Worship:

Create your own playlist of “joyful songs” on your favorite streaming music app. I use Amazon Prime Music and did a search for Christian music of joy and found many playlists already created.