Pastor Joshua Kiluba
Reading Ephesians 3:14–15, the Apostle Paul prays on behalf of the church. As he blesses the body of Christ, he points out that the Father (God) is the source of the names of all families, both in heaven and on earth. Further down, the passage in Ephesians 5:31–32 further captures how a man leaves his family to be wedded (joined) to his bride—a great mystery that shed lights on Christ and the church, His bride.
When we speak about mysteries, we speak about the spirit of discovery. While not every mystery is profound, those that are hold valuable principles. When these principles are discovered, they bring great joy, provision, and sustenance to the one who receives them. Self-discovery is one of the greatest mysteries. Once you discover yourself, the world will recognize your uniqueness as it seeks out unique experiences.
Therefore, our aim should never be to fit in with someone else’s style or adhere to global trends. The fact about trends is that they have an expiration date, just like a certified copy. Trends eventually fade; thus, to truly discover yourself, you must first discover who Christ is. By going deeper in your understanding of Christ, you can unlock your own identity, bringing you great stability.
Joy plays an essential role in this journey. When you discover who Christ is, you also find joy. People often find happiness in different contexts and through unfavourable means. Drugs and alcohol are two examples; the use of these two substances can lead to depression. They harm the user’s wellbeing to the point of impairing judgment. How can someone know what God has already given them if they drown in their thoughts? Thus, there is only one true delight and that is in Christ!
Moreover, a joyful person is effective in managing relationships. People hang around the source of contagious joy in the room. By the same breadth, A healthy family life holds together when joy is the ingredient. The atmosphere of joy breeds a field of breakthroughs. Before the breakthrough comes the singing, a response to joy and a precursor for blessing, as highlighted in Isaiah 54:1-3 and James 5:13.
Finally, in accordance with James 5:13, when in troubles, pray; when happy, sing songs of praise! Be joyful, always! The term “be” takes its roots from the Creator, Elohim, who brings into existence. It is a reminder to put on Joy, a gift freely given to you through Jesus! Rejoice in the Lord!
