Joyful, Joyful
These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.
John 15:11
Henry van Dyke had experienced many inspirational moments, as a navy chaplain, pastor, and author of numerous devotional writings. He also had been an honored politician (as United States Ambassador to Holland and Luxembourg).
But something unexpected happened to him one day in 1907 when he was visiting Massachusetts. Filled with joy at the sight of the Berkshire Mountains, he wrote words that became the powerful hymn, “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.”
Filled with overwhelming joy at what God was revealing, He described how he adored Him, He wrote this “God of glory, Lord of love, our hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, opening to the sun above, melt the clouds of sin and sadness; drive the dark of doubt away; giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day!”
He saw God’s works all around, realizing that He is “giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blessed.” He is the “Wellspring of the joy of living!” He is our Father, and Christ is our Brother.
Let this Joy of the Lord which filled Henry fill you and me during the Christmas season, and may this Joy change our attitude toward life’s problems.
Today, in whatever situation you face, remember that God knows what you are going through. The Bible assures us that He is ready to help you be a victor, not a victim. He can give you joy in the midst of every situation.
During this Christmas season, be sure to allow the joy of Jesus to fill your heart. Praise His name.
But something unexpected happened to him one day in 1907 when he was visiting Massachusetts. Filled with joy at the sight of the Berkshire Mountains, he wrote words that became the powerful hymn, “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.”
Filled with overwhelming joy at what God was revealing, He described how he adored Him, He wrote this “God of glory, Lord of love, our hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, opening to the sun above, melt the clouds of sin and sadness; drive the dark of doubt away; giver of immortal gladness, fill us with the light of day!”
He saw God’s works all around, realizing that He is “giving and forgiving, ever blessing, ever blessed.” He is the “Wellspring of the joy of living!” He is our Father, and Christ is our Brother.
Let this Joy of the Lord which filled Henry fill you and me during the Christmas season, and may this Joy change our attitude toward life’s problems.
Today, in whatever situation you face, remember that God knows what you are going through. The Bible assures us that He is ready to help you be a victor, not a victim. He can give you joy in the midst of every situation.
During this Christmas season, be sure to allow the joy of Jesus to fill your heart. Praise His name.