Joy from the world?
Lately, a number of celebrities have been imploding in the public eye. Charlie Sheen and Lindsay Lohan quickly jump to mind. These two and many others like them, have it all by the world’s standards – fame, money, looks, and lots of stuff. So why are they so unhappy? Why are they falling apart in the midst of “success?”
The world tells us that we can find joy and fulfillment in popularity, money, jobs, and human relationships. But we acquire these things and the joy and fulfillment they bring are only temporary at best. Then we need more – more money, a better job, a new relationship. “If I only had this… if only I could achieve that… if only that person would love me, then I would be happy.”
Even Christians fall into looking for joy the way the world does. I’ve done it. I still do it. From little things like binging on chocolate during a stressful day or buying a new outfit I don’t need to bigger things like brooding about my husband’s “imperfections” or allowing one of life’s trials to overwhelm me.
The world searches for fulfillment, contentment, and happiness in things that are fleeting and imperfect. These things can never bring lasting joy. Real eternal joy comes only through a relationship with Jesus Christ. As we abide in Christ – as we stay closely connected to Him in a daily dependent relationship – His joy flows into us. (See John 15:5-11.)
I have to remind myself constantly to not be swayed by the world’s form of joy. I must cling to Christ. Stay connected to the vine that supplies the essential spiritual sap. Spend time with Him daily.
What is your “if only?” What is that thing that tempts you to look for joy somewhere other than the true joy-giver?
Kathy,
You are right! Jesus is the true joy-giver! This world has nothing to offer us except emptiness. I enjoyed reading this blog today.
Blessings,
Krista
Thanks for sharing. It is a good reminder to remember our source of joy and being content in Him.
Bethany
Yes, I often look to others for joy just like I look to others for approval–nobody else works but Jesus.
True peace and joy is only found in a personal relationship with Jesus. Sometimes I need to be reminded of that when I think I need to get that joy from people and yes that acceptance and approval, but then I will hear a song or as I spend time with Him reading the Word and loving Him and allowing Him to love me that joy lifts me up and refreshes my soul. Thanks for sharing this!
You are so right! It is easy to fall into the trap of looking to “things” to fulfill a percieved need we have. But, only God can completely and fully satisfy all our longings. Thanks for the reminder to keep our eyes on Him.
Living for Him, Joan
Kathy, there are so many things in this that I can identify with. Thanks for the reminder that the joys of the world are temporary but that true joy comes through Jesus Christ.
Thank you for the reminder!!! 🙂
You are right, Kathy. We do look for worldly things to bring us joy. The one for me is acceptance by others. I just have to remember that He already accepted me just as I am.
Ladies, thanks for your comments. One thing that was mentioned by several is that sometimes we look for joy through the approval of others. That is also a hazard for me. In fact, I think that is common for us women because we want to please others. I’m trying to remember today that it’s God I want to please!!
“I have to remind myself constantly to not be swayed by the world’s form of joy. I must cling to Christ. Stay connected to the vine that supplies the essential spiritual sap. Spend time with Him daily.” AMEN!!
Kathy, You are sooooo right!!