“FINDING JOY”

“And we are writing these things so that our joy may be complete.”

1 John 1:4

In today’s verse, John closes his prologue to this epistle by stating his purpose: he wants his readers to have the fullness of joy. In context, Christianity during this time was still in its infancy. Therefore, Christians were a minority, facing different kinds of persecution, including threats from the government, false teachers, and others. To be identified with Christ meant a matter of losing one’s living. False teachers were presenting doctrines that contradicted the Apostolic teachings, i.e., that Jesus did not actually exist but only seemed like a human being. All of these concerns (and more) were the reasons why John wrote to his readers.

Previously, John expressed his desire for them to have a fellowship with other believers, provided that they shared the same faith in Jesus, a.k.a.  “The Word of Life.” Now, he wants them to experience the fullness of joy.

“Fellowship is Christ’s answer to loneliness of life; joy is His answer to the emptiness and hollowness of life.” (Wiersbe)

John’s statement is similar to what he spoke of in his third epistle:

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”

3 John 1:4

A true spiritual leader like John shares God’s desire for His people that their joy comes from the spiritual growth of those whom they minister to—like how a responsible, loving parent wants what’s best for his children.

The kind of joy John speaks of is a manifestation of the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22), meaning, it is not self-produced. It does not even come from the world. Therefore, no amount of worldly wealth or success can compare to the joy that a heart wholly committed to God possesses.

We may find happiness when we receive acknowledgment for our efforts, but we know that such a feeling does not last. That’s why we don’t stop. We want to experience that thrill of euphoria again and again. But what happens when we can no longer do the things that make us happy?

And the truth is, real joy can be found only in a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. He offers His joy to anyone who believes in Him.

“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”

John 15:11

Where do you find your joy?

Pursue the Savior today!