John 15:11 | Christ Gives Joy
In John 15:11 ESV, Jesus says, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”
John 15 is an anchor passage for our ministry. We believe that there is immense power and freedom when we learn to abide in Christ. Abiding in Christ is the entire pursuit of this daily devotional. I am so thankful that the scriptures give us the wisdom and tools to live in freedom.
The things Jesus has been speaking up to this point in John are quite transformative. To sum it up, he calls his disciples to learn how to know God intimately through openness to the Holy Spirit and obedience to his commands. The command is, of course, to love God and love people.
I find it so amazing that Jesus includes this statement about joy. He could have called his disciples to follow him based on the unchallenged truth that he was God and his ways were the best ways. Jesus could have demanded fealty based on his sovereignty alone. He did not have to be concerned with the emotional state of his followers.
Yet Jesus is found here encouraging his followers (including us) that his way is filled with joy!
It hit me this morning that God is far beyond trying to prove that his way is right or wrong. He is not working overtime to convince his people that his commands are more upright, righteous, or holy. The kingdom of God is also about freedom, glory, and wonder beyond religion and rituals. It is about knowing God and living in the perfection and beauty of his creation.
Living in God’s truth means more than getting everything right. It is about entering the door to life and joy.
So how will you approach the Lord today? Will you let joy have a place in your prayers? Will you let freedom enter into your worship?
Jesus spoke to us the truth of the kingdom of God so we could live in joy.
Psalm 30:11 ESV says, “You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness,”
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Abiding happens daily in his presence. Abiding Daily is a simple and practical reminder to stay connected to the vine. Each prompt is inspired by the scriptures and designed to point you toward prayer and encounter. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram. To get the Daily Invitation sent to you every day click this link or text “Daily” to +1 (779) 237-3914.
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Our first devotional book is available on our online store! Abiding Daily: Volume One is a devotional book including 120 prompts from the Daily Invitation. This book is designed to help believers connect with God through the word and discover more of what it means to abide in Christ. Click here to learn more.
