THE JOY OF THE LORD
	In recent times my heart has been thirsting for more of the joy of the Lord. I am just not satisfied with the low level of joy in Him that I have! I want a joy that I am constantly aware of. Like a cup brimful of sweet water sloshing over every now and then. Since joy is part of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), we can expect to grow more and better in these. Praying about this aspect, I was joyfully surprised by "reminders" that popped up unexpectedly throughout my days! I think our precious brother Paul has given us a key to generate more of the joy of the Lord when he said: "Rejoice in the Lord always. I say it again: Rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4). This life and its challenges sap us of much joy in life. Troubles and daily cares are on the forefront of our thoughts. That is a definite joy quencher!! But, that deep-down joy that looks beyond the cares of this world, is renewed when we start rejoicing in the Lord! We have way more reason to rejoice because we have eternity before us! We have more reason to rejoice than to weep and worry about our present tribulations that will be over in the blink of an eye. The Presence of Jesus and all of His promises are ours - for this life and for eternity! I was in awe yesterday morning after the church service when a precious little girl came and tapped me gently on my back, and when I turned around she was holding up her page of what was possibly their Sunday School lesson! I was overwhelmed to say the least. In her best efforts this six year old had written: "THE JOY OF THE LORD IS MY STRENGTH" (Nehemiah 8:10). God's majesty radiates joy and I want to be where it reflects onto my heart. Rejoice, dear ones! Rejoice! - Helen du Plessis, 083 332 0895.