As with all the passages this week, today’s reading is brief. Nevertheless, the passage is loaded with a question, and the answer to that question will define your life here and in eternity.
Hebrews 4:12 says that “the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Meditate on the Scripture below, and then let the living and active Word pierce into your thoughts and your heart.
John 16:22
22 So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?
+ When is the last time your heart has rejoiced?
+ Do you have a joy that no one, or no “thing” (looking at you Facebook feed) can take away?
+ Matthew Henry’s commentary says of this passage: “The Holy Spirit would be their Comforter, and neither men nor devils, neither sufferings in life nor in death, would ever deprive them of their joy. Believers have joy or sorrow, according to their sight of Christ, and the tokens of his presence. Sorrow is coming on the ungodly, which nothing can lessen; the believer is an heir to joy which no one can take away.” Here is the clarifying question: what eyes are you living life with? Do you view the Father and view the Son from the eyes of a disciple or as a “Christian”? Do you commune with the Holy Spirit as a disciple walking in the way of the Master...or do you commune more in line with the world’s definition of a “Christian”? Jesus is talking to his disciples here. And if indeed you view yourself as a disciple and endeavor to commit to increasingly following in the way of the Master, aided by the Holy Spirit, you will realize fullness of joy that cannot be taken. There is no “but” or qualifier, only a supernatural power, joy, and peace that passes understanding. God promised you.
[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?
+ Is there a sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?
+ It’s more than fine to identify as a Christian. But if someone asked you if you are a “disciple of Christ”, what would you say? If you would give pause before the answer, it’s time to act. Pray more and more fervently, and ask for this outcome. Ask that our Father would grant you the ability to walk in His Son’s way. Talk to your elders and challenge them -- if Downtown Hope can foster an environment of discipleship better, rise up and reach out to your elder team. Don’t live life merely as a “Christian”. Christ purchased a disciple to be part of His body and bring hope to a dying world.
[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?
+ What is my next step?