Choose JoySample

DAY 39 - THE JOY OF 'ONE ANOTHER'

Reflection: Again today, we see that joy is not just an individual quality but one found in relationship with others. Although these three proverbs are not formally linked, they provide a common theme.

Joy accompanies those who find a way to do life with others, to counsel and assist one another. To test their decisions and choices by listening to the ‘apt reply’ of a friend. Of course, this includes families, friends, and experts. But in the context of the Bible, it also implies our Christian family and, of course, the Counsellor and Advocate – the Holy Spirit.

The Hebrew word for ‘fail’ is parar, which means to break, frustrate, or annul. If that feels like what is happening to your ‘plans’, the direction of your life, or an area of life, then seek counsel or sod, which more specifically means an inner circle of intimate conversation where mutual trust grows. It also includes the intimate counsel of God.

If we are invited into such an inner circle to support others, then joy is found for all involved in an apt and timely word or reply. This can mean a word in season – literally, advice that is right for that moment. It also means to be part of the solution with what we say, not just pointing out the problems. This implies thoughtful consideration that contributes to progress. Advice is usually best received when it is given thoughtfully, after a question is asked.

‘Apt reply’ most simply means to provide an answer to a problem. In the words of Andraé Crouch’s 70’s song, Jesus is the answer for the world today, above him there’s no other, Jesus is the way.

Choose joy: Reflect on your ‘inner circle’. If it doesn’t include Jesus, make him a part of it. If you don’t have one, it’s time to build relationships.