Scripture: John 16:20-24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
Relevant Definitions: joy: the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying, keen pleasure, elation, festive gaiety
Devotion: Lately there has been a buzz distinguishing the difference between happiness and joy. It seems happiness is for a moment but joy is a state of being. Joy is not momentail and existent because of an event but can exist in every circumstance.
In John 16:20-24 there seems to be a precursor to joy. Professedly there is suffering that comes first. Mourning, grief, pain, childbirth will all somehow be turned to joy. Once the suffering has come full measure, joy will be made complete. Complete meaning whole and in its fullness, unable to be moved. Think about it this way. Would you like a piece of the pie or the entire pie? Now some would be happy to at least have a piece but according to this passage of scripture, joy would not be complete.
Be encouraged, suffering and pain may seem never ending but God would never leave us in that state of being. Galatians 6:9 says, “Don’t be weary in doing well for in due season you will reap if you faint not.” Stay firm and know, you are entering the fullness of joy.
Reflection: Has your suffering seemed endless? One thing after another can make you feel overwhelmed and helpless. Today, be encouraged to continue standing until your joy is full. How will you know? Because situations and circumstances will no longer have the same effect and joy will be evident in all things.
Prayer: Lord, we thank you for joy and the ability to stay steady until our joy is made complete We thank you that our season of joy has come!
Written by Petrina Milan
Eyes of an Overcomer 
Amen! Joy in the Lord is so much more rewarding than being upset with ourselves. His joy changes our perspective!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, it does! The challenge is remembering that in the moment! 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes! We have to go deep inside to the fruits of the Holy Spirit.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A daily discipline but well worth its fruit!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Amen!
LikeLike