“But now I come to you, and these things I speak in the world so that they may have my joy made full in themselves. I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” John 17:13-14
Jesus didn’t sugarcoat it. He told His disciples the world would hate them. But in the same breath, He prayed they would have His joy made full. That’s a stunning combination. Hostility and joy, side by side. The problem is we keep looking for joy in the wrong places. We think if we just get the right job, the perfect family situation, or enough money in the bank, then we’ll be happy. But joy isn’t found in possessions or positions. The psalmist wrote, “In your presence is fullness of joy.” Joy is found in God Himself, in being immersed in relationship with Him.
When you follow Jesus, you will face opposition. Your character, your purposes, your ways will run against a world that loves darkness more than light. But here’s the beautiful truth: you can have deep, unshakable joy even in the middle of trials because your joy isn’t dependent on circumstances. It’s rooted in who God is and what He’s done for you. This week, when you face hostility (whether it’s outright persecution or just the subtle resistance of a culture that doesn’t understand your faith), remember that Jesus promised His joy would be made full in you. Not partial joy. Not occasional happiness. Full joy, even when things are hard.
Reflect:
- Where have you been searching for joy outside of God’s presence?
- How can you cultivate joy today even in the midst of difficult circumstances?
- Thank God that He wants you to have full joy. Ask Him to help you find that joy in His presence rather than in your circumstances, and to give you strength when you face hostility for following Him.
