by Margaret Michel
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope in the power of the Holy Spirit.
As you read today’s verse, what pictures fill your mind?
Joy. I imagine a “Just Married” couple gleefully exiting their wedding ceremony — elated, excited, exhilarated.
And the picture of Peace? For me, it’s the face of a sleeping baby lulled to a deep, tranquil slumber. Soft rhythmic breathing, contented and serene. The very portrait of peace. Perhaps your image of peace is different.
Now, imagine with me picture-perfect joy being yours — daily! Furthermore, imagine abiding peace as a constant in your life every moment of every day.
God offers to make us chock full of both joy and peace. Not by striving. Not depending upon a life event, or changing circumstances, or excessive effort.
How? Through faith. Faith allows us to choose to bury all doubt and accept all hope. It enables us to trust in the power of the Holy Spirit. Once we have the super-abundant torrents of joy and peace, only then can the “icing” of all hope be layered atop it all.
What a delight, to be filled with joy… and peace… and hope!
What threatens your joy? What depletes your peace? Or diminishes your hope?
Dive into God’s triple-layer delight: the fullness of joy, peace, and hope through faith in the power of the Holy Spirit!
What ways will I choose to be filled with God’s joy, peace, and hope today?
Precious Lord, Fill me with Your triple filling of joy, peace, and hope. Fill me to the brim until I overflow with Your Holy Spirit. In Christ’s blessed name I pray, Amen.