Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit. (Psalm 51:12, ESV)
Several years ago a close friend admitted she’d lost the joy of her salvation. Miserable in her marriage, feeling unloved, grieved by the choices her children were making, and disappointed by unanswered prayers for a special needs child—she was sure that if her circumstances were different, her joy would return. Haven’t we all thought that at least once in our life? If only this or that would change, I’d be happy.
Beginning Thanksgiving week on “Grace to You,” John MacArthur begins his study Joy Rules (airs 11/20-12/5) and tells us first that joy is not possible without Christ. In fact, true joy is an un-wavering constant in a Spirit-filled life. From his study in Philippians, John then provides listeners with ways to cultivate deep, abiding joy that will enrich their life, every day and in every circumstance. He also points out several things that can steal our joy:
- False salvation
- Satan
- Inadequate under-standing of God’s sovereignty
- Prayerlessness
- Circumstance orientation
- Ingratitude
- Dissatisfaction with your earthly condition
- Fear of the future
- Self-centeredness
- Unwillingness to accept forgiveness
When my friend first confided in me, I felt inadequate to console her. But I’ve thought of her words many times through the years, especially at times when, admittedly, I’ve was lacking that true joy myself. This study is a welcome reminder for me … and I trust many of your listeners will feel the same.
For more valuable lessons from “Grace to You”, download the November Program Tool Kit. There you’ll find the broadcast details and resources available at GTY.org to help your listeners grow in their understanding of God’s Word. If you should need additional information, please do let me know.
