Prayer: Strive to know the depths of “grace and peace“ (Phi 1:1,2). #GiftOfJoy #GraceAndPeace https://www.bible.com/116/php.1.1-2.nlt https://www.bible.com/59/1pe.1.8.esv
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Paul greets his Philippian readers with the words, “grace and peace.” The New Living Translation Bible study notes say, “Inside the tiny package marked ‘grace and peace,’ we find an inexhaustible treasure of God’s daily presence in our lives.” Grace and peace are at the source of all joy.
Everything I read as an introduction to the epistle of Philippians leads me to reflect on the subject of “joy.“ Yet, it is not joy that I seek as an end in itself. No. But it is the Giver of joy unspeakable whom I seek. Joy is the by-product. First Peter 1:8 underscores this appellation as descriptive of the experience of knowing Christ. I do not strive for joy. It it is a surprise gift that comes naturally as I strive to know Christ in all of his fullness. Father, may I know first hand the depths of grace and peace in relationship with you.
____________________
*Title of a book by CS Lewis; the story of his conversion to Christianity
The Prayer Sentry 
***Jesus is Deanne’s Love and Joy forever! ************************************************************** Precious Jesus is all the world to me. He is my eternal everlasting life > all my hope is in Jesus and I rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory. He is my love, my all and all, my joy and my delight. He has made known to me the path of life and He fills me with joy in His presence, with eternal pleasures at His right hand.
Precious Jesus is all the world to me. He sends forth His light and His truth to guide me. He is my dearest Friend in times of trial He gives me His comfort and His joy. In His word, here are some of His promises: *Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. *Gladness and joy will overtake you, and sorrow and sighing will flee away. *You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace.
Precious Lord Jesus is all the world to me. He fills me with joy in His presence. The Word of the Lord is my joy and my heart’s delight. Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise. He is the joy of the whole earth. I shout for joy to our Precious Lord Jesus with a burst into jubilant song of praise and with music.
***********************************************************************************
LikeLike