David and the people with him danced for joy, and with a lot of energy. Some sang. Some played instruments, such as lyres, harps, tambourines, castanets, and cymbals. It was a joyful noise.
1 THESSALONIANS 5:16 (TCEB)
Live in a spirit of joy.
THE ESSENCE
The spirit of joy characterizes life with Jesus.
DAILY FODDER
Living with a "spirit of joy" doesn't mean that every moment is happy. Rather, even though sad times come, the underlying spirit of joy that flows through our lives because of the presence of the Holy Spirit, ultimately transforms those moments into a celebration of what God is doing.
PRAYER
Lord, you are my delight and joy — even when the moment is sad. Help me to deal with my saddness in such a way that your joy shines through even in the hardest moments. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER (ABP)
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
Give us enough food for today.
Forgive us our wrongdoing,
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
