Scripture - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace (Galatians 5.22).
In a world like this, with conditions being what they are, what should a serious-minded Christian do? The answer is easy to give but hard to follow.
First, accept the truth concerning yourself. You do not go to a doctor to seek consolation but to find out what is wrong and what to do about it. Seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Seek through Jesus Christ a right relationship to your fellow man. Set about reverently to amend your doings. Magnify God, mortify the flesh, simplify your life. Take up your cross and learn of Jesus Christ to die to this world that He may raise you up in due time.
If you will do these things in faith and love, you will know peace, but it will be the peace of God that passes all understanding. You will know joy, but it will be the joy of resurrection, not the irresponsible happiness of men who insist on carnal enjoyments. You will know the comfort of the indwelling Spirit which will often spring up like a well of water in the desert, not because you have sought it but have sought rather to do the will of God at any price.
As I have said before, we can afford to suffer now; we’ll have a long eternity to enjoy ourselves. And our enjoyment will be valid and pure, for it will come in the right way at the right time.
Thought - There is joy and peace that are the fruit of the Spirit. Joy that comes from within and is far different than pleasure. Peace which is essentially harmony with the will of God. It is the God of hope who fills us with joy and peace (Romans 15:13).
Prayer - It is You, Lord, who gives joy and peace—You, not satisfaction of flesh desires or entertainment or economic prosperity. Thank You!
