“Spiritual Joy” – The Holiness Project – Day 2

Joy is Not Optional. 

That is the declaration of Pastor John Piper from Desiring God.  He coined the term Christian Hedonism and it certainly puts a spin on things.

This is a truth that many (if not most) modern Christians simply do not understand or experience. I want to take a closer look at it precisely because I did’t get it either for a long time. Now I have a glimpse of that far country, that beautiful vision, and I want to share it with you. The vision of spiritual joy.

The problem with most of us (myself included) is that having joy in my relationship with God is not that common. Certainly there are moments of joy but it is not a common experience. Certainly I can compare it with my relationship with my family and understand that there are moments of joy and, in other moments, there is anger and pain and depression as well. Not necessarily because of my family. Just because of life.

Book 5 - The Road to Jerusalem

“Enjoy Him Forever” – Seeking Jerusalem – Day 29

What if I told you that God’s greatest desire for us and our most important obligation in the Christian life was the pursuit of joy?  Would you believe me?

Many wouldn’t.  For many good, dedicated Christians, the concept of sacrifice, dying to oneself, discipline and training, mortifying the flesh, all have a rather somber, serious tone about them that leaves little room for joy.

I understand them but I don’t agree.