Nehemiah said it was the source of true strength.[See Nehemiah 8:10.] The psalmist David found it in God’s presence and offered it back to Him as a love gift.[See Psalm 16:11.] Jeremiah found it in God’s Word.[See Jeremiah 15:16.] King Solomon said it was one of God’s rewards for right living.[See Ecclesiastes 2:26.] Jesus promised it to His followers and said it came through believing and doing what He said.[See John 15:11.]
The apostle Paul named it as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit, as well as one of the hallmarks of the kingdom of heaven within.[See Galatians 5:22; Romans 14:17.] And Paul should know; it sustained him through imprisonment, persecution, and numerous other perils.[See 2 Corinthians 11:23; Acts 20:24.] The apostle Peter said it couldn’t be put into words, but that it was “full of glory.”[1 Peter 1:8]
“It” is “the joy of the Lord.”
And the good news is that the joy of the Lord is not reserved only for prophets, psalmists, kings, and apostles. Many millions of believers of all ages and down through the ages have thrilled to it and lived by it—and you can too. It’s free, and it can be yours starting right now with a simple prayer asking Jesus to fill you with the Holy Spirit’s “joy unspeakable.” Jesus has promised, “Ask, and it will be given to you. … If you know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”[Luke 11:9,13] Then don’t be surprised if you’re happier than you’ve ever been in your life, or that your joy and happiness spill over on others. Like all the other best things in life, the joy of the Lord is best when shared.