Okay, so gladness has many meanings, but in Greek chai-ro means "rejoice"; cha-ra "joy". Be glad, Hebrew sa-me-ach is "be joyful"; sim-chah "joy"; gil "to dance" (in a circle). How cool that they are all about joy and rejoicing. I love to rejoice and worship God, my only source of true joy and happiness.
Often times, people comment on my cheerfulness and ask me how I am so happy all the time. Well, it comes from worshipping the Lord. And yes I do have my "grumpy pants" moments like everybody else, at times. I just have to remember my source of joy and reconnect with the Lord through out the day to get powered up.
Only God gives me joy that is steady even when my situation is not. The joy that is unspeakable. We can also find this in the fruit of the Spirit which is "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith..." (Galatians 5:22). As stated in Psalm 100:2 "Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing." The Hebrew word for gladness is often associated with lavish celebration and festivity to which the early Christians seemed to have a good understanding. When we are truly glad in Christ, it is like having a party.
Often times there are many reasons to be glad. Life's going well, our problem is taking a turn for the better, or we receive good news. Thankfully, even when things aren't let's say, "wonderful" we can be glad when we are in God's presence.
Application: Ask yourself though, who would know it, unless you show it? So, feel free to show that gladness so it may speak to others and encourage them when they may be in a not so glad mind set, situation or trial. Let our joy be contagious oh God. Let us "Worship the Lord with gladness," knowing that this gladness isn't just a feeling of satisfaction or contentment. Take action, Celebrate, Rejoice and Be Glad!
Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray that your joy would be our strength, that we would show our children by example, the joy that can't be taken away, the peace that only you can give, the love and understanding, mercy and grace, rejoicing in song and dance. Let us worship you with freedom and truth. I thank you for giving me the gift of my girls, family and friends. Help me to be a blessing and joy to you and them, always.
Be on the look out for more of my handmade baby blanket creations and updates. I have lots of new fabrics and exciting ideas. See you tomorrow for more blessings!
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