The Joy of the Lord
Some time ago, I had to get unplanned root canal work done on my teeth. The pain and infection was so bad, my body was trembling. I could not get my regular dentist on the phone, so we called my orthodontist. He gave me an antibiotic and some pain medicine I never had before. When I took the pain medicine, I had a severe reaction to it. I lost control of my bodily functions, I was disoriented, and everyone sounded so far away when they spoke to me. My daughter and granddaughter were there to help me and take care of me. I slept for two days with them watching over me. Even though I was getting better, my legs broke out in a skin rash that was itchy and hurt. I had to sleep like a mummy and couldn’t wear clothes that touched my legs. There was no position I could find that was comfortable. Thankfully, I have been able to use a combination of medicines to ease the discomfort, and I am getting better and sleeping better. It has been a trying time, but all the while Jesus has given me joy! The joy of the Lord is our strength, and He makes us focus on His power not on the discomfort. Paul was in prison chained to the guard and sang praises to the Lord.
Thank you, Jesus, for your comfort.
Nehemiah 8:10
Then he said unto them, “go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Psalm 16:11
Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
John 15:11
[Jesus said] These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
Romans 15:13
Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Isaiah 61:10
I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.