JOY FULFILLED
Holy Father, protect them by Your name, the name You gave Me, so that they may be one as
We are one. While I was with them, I protected and preserved them by Your name, the name
You gave Me. Not one of them has been lost, except the son of destruction, so that the
Scripture would be fulfilled. But now I am coming to You; and I am saying these things while I
am in the world, so that they may have My joyG5479 fulfilled within them. I have given them
Your word and the world has hated them; for they are not of the world, just as I am not of the
world.
John 17:11-14
God’s word and the world system are contrasted as polar opposites. When we study Scripture, we should go one step further to meditate on it, to internalize it. In other words, the truth of the Word is walked out in our everyday lives through our thinking, speaking, and interacting with family, co-workers, and strangers. The Bible brings joy because it is living; it is as relevant today as when it was first written. We can have joy because in the Word we find peace to replace anxiety: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7), power and love to replace fear: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7), and direction to replace aimlessness: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). The Bible is a treasure trove of joy for those who believe. “Your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jer. 15:16). “I rejoice in the way of Your testimonies as much as in all riches.” (Ps. 119:14). “I rejoice in Your promise like one who finds great spoil.” (Ps. 119:162).
Instead of getting angry in a traffic jam or while waiting at the doctor’s office or grocery line, try having Scripture verses on Post-It Notes™, small cards, or your phone’s lock screen. that you can read and work on memorizing while you wait. The Lord will bring those verses to mind just when you need them the most! As God’s word becomes your treasure, you will find that your treasure brings you joy.
Father, may we truly treasure Your word in our hearts. Grant us the power and strength through Your Holy Spirit to live out what we have learned in Your word.