The joy of the Lord is your strength.
—Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV)

"Joy is the serious business of heaven."
—C.S. Lewis

Spread joy by sharing words of encouragement and gratitude with someone in your life.

Father, thank You for the gift of joy that comes from knowing You. Help me to find strength in Your joy and to share it with others, so they may see Your light through me

Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.

—1 Peter 1:8 (NIV)

My grandchildren live several states away, but I think of them every day. Other than FaceTime calls, I can’t physically see them. I can look at the photos hanging on the wall. I smile at their favorite books that fill my shelves and often read to them over the phone. I also hum songs we sang together. Until the next visit, I’ll miss the tangible ability to hug them, to be with them in person. Yet I love them. I know they are enjoying life, laughing, and playing. Their very existence fills me with joy. 

I sometimes complain to Jesus that it’s challenging to follow Him when I can’t see Him or hear His audible voice. I can’t touch Him as the first disciples could. I’ve learned about Him through Scripture and the truth passed down through generations. I’ve experienced His spirit in worship and prayer. But I long to be concretely in His presence. 

Today, Jesus reminded me of how much joy I feel in my grandchildren, even when I’m not physically present with them. Like my grandchildren, Jesus doesn’t cease to exist just because I can’t see Him (John 20:29). He is with me, and that fills me with joy. Just as I eagerly anticipate the next visit with my grandchildren, I’m excited to know that one day I’ll stand in the presence of Jesus. In the end, believing is seeing.  

—Sharon Hinck

Faith Step: List people who give you joy even when you can’t see them. Ask Jesus to increase your belief until you see Him in eternity.

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