“And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you” (John 16:22).
TEXT — John 16:16-22
Message
The famous South African Dutch minister, theologian, and mission organiser, Andrew Murray, said, “Joy is not a luxury or a mere accessory in the Christian life. It is a sign that we are really living in God’s wonderful love and that love satisfies us.”
In our text, Christ’s dialogue with His disciples got them troubled and sorrowful. In his wisdom as God, knowing all things and never needing to be told what was in man, He clarified by the employment of an illustration about a travailing woman whose joy knows no bounds after she gives birth to a baby.
The Christian life is not always easy, as believers may face trials and troubles due to their faith. Some Christians mistakenly believe that suffering is a result of sin and must be examined and corrected. However, this is not always the case, as seen in the story of Job. Instead of making quick judgments, believers should pray and support each other through challenges. It is important to remember that we are saved by grace, not by our own actions. Rather than adding to the burdens of others, we should work towards solving problems and offering support to fellow citizens of heaven. God is always present and will ultimately bring deliverance to those who trust Him.
Beloved pilgrim, your challenges are not new, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye able; but will with the temptation make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). What are you going through: failing health, crumbling business, uncooperative in-laws, dwindling church membership, unsympathetic partner at home, incorrigible children, delayed prayer answers, accusation and persecution by false brethren, hatred and animosity by people you have helped in the past? Consider them as light afflictions which shall soon pass away. Weeping may last for the night, but joy will come in the morning. An eternal weight of glory and joy awaits the godly after this world of uncertainties. Your happiness and reward shall know no bounds!
Listed among “500 most powerful people on the planet” by the Foreign Policy magazine in 2013, Pastor (Dr.) William F. Kumuyi is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria. DCLM started in 1973 as a 15-member Bible study group right in Kumuyi’s apartment at University of Lagos where he was a lecturer. His revolutionary Bible teaching on personal holiness and commitment to evangelism soon gained so much traction and resulted in a widespread revival.
2 comments
Daily manner is truly a source of my strength anytime when hope was lost I find comfort in his word through the thought for the bible reading and alot of more more grace the publication team
May our good lord bless His servant amen, amen.
GS total have doing great impact mostly especially my life first.
I was born not in deeper life but God directed in other to not misout in His true gospel.
Daily manner is truly a source of my strength anytime when hope was lost I find comfort in his word through the thought for the bible reading and alot of more more grace the publication team
May our good lord bless His servant amen, amen.
GS total have doing great impact mostly especially my life first.
I was born not in deeper life but God directed in other to not misout in His true gospel.