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2 Corinthians 1:23-24
In 2 Corinthians 1:23-24 the Apostle Paul begins explaining to the “saints” of the church at Corinth of the issues he faces in visiting them. He states that he wanted to “spare them” (2 Corinthians 1:23, NKJV) which indicates that he did not have good news for them as we will learn in 2 Corinthians of the sorrow that he is feeling for them because of something that has caused “grief” among them. But Paul does leave some exciting words for the Corinthians to ponder as he states in 2 Corinthians 1:24, “24Not that we have dominion over your faith, but are fellow workers for your joy; for by faith you stand.”
This is a promise of working together for joy in Christ Jesus.
Not to have dominion over each other’s faith, but that we are fellow workers for the joy of each other in Christ Jesus, in following the directions as given by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 1:24. The word “joy” should bring a smile to your face; just hearing the word “joy” brings joy to us all. We are to be joyful in the Lord. Who does not wish to hear the words of God upon arriving in heaven as described by Jesus in Matthew 25:21, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” Jesus declares in John 15:11, “these things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” Before Jesus is crucified, He prays in the garden, “but now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves” (John 17:13). And in Romans 15:13 Paul states, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” It is through our faith in God and His One and only Son Jesus that we stand together as Christians. If you want joy to fill your heart, soul, and mind, put your faith in Jesus and open your heart to His Holy Spirit in seeking and following His will for your life; and joy will fill your soul.
Dear LORD,
Oh to be joyful in Christ Jesus. What a wonderful feeling that is – to have Your Holy Spirit fill us with joy that is pure and righteous. Come into our hearts, souls, and minds LORD, and fill us with Your pure love, peace, and joy – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.