The Fruit Of The Spirit Is....Joy

Greek word - Chara. Translated as 'joy' or 'delight'
Used in NT to portray cheerfulness, calm delight, gladness, exceedingly joyful spiritual elation.
Dictionary definition - deep feeling or condition of happiness or contentment, an outward show of pleasure or delight.

Examples of the word Chara in the NT

These help us to understand the Biblical teaching on Joy

a) Experience of receiving God's word. Mark 4:16
b) Expression of our worship to God. Col 1:10-12
c) To proclaim the Good News of the birth of Jesus. Luke 2:10
d) The objects of Paul's desire. Phil 4:1
e) The objects of Christ's desire. Hebrews 12:2
f) To see our problems in a different light. James 1:2
g) To express the benefits of service. Matthew 25: 21, 23

Some practical teaching on joy

a) There is a difference between joy and happiness. Hebrews 12:2
Happiness is dependant upon external circumstances. Joy is dependant upon our relationship with God.
b) Joy should not depend upon circumstances. Col 1:24
c) Joy is not anonymous. Jeremiah 31:4
Joy must manifest itself. Joy prompts action. Matthew 13:44
d) Beware - we can lose our joy. Gal 4:15

Joy is a fruit, we need to let it grow. Give it the right environment in which to grow in our lives.

Stewart Bloor

www.sicm.org