Joy in Christ – 2 Corinthians 7:4

…In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.

Such is the true joy that comes through salvation in Christ Jesus and the relationships that result. It is a joy that transcends any earthly condition. A joy that is intensified through suffering and affliction. A joy that is not of this earth and is beyond our own selves. It is the gift of One who has suffered and has given us of Himself that we might be ourselves even in the midst of affliction and distress. This is a relationship forged through self-sacrifice and all such relationships in Him are blessed. He transcends any earthly experience and the joy associated with knowing Christ and those to Whom He has also revealed Himself is unmatched.

The joy of knowing Christ Jesus flows through every aspect of our being, every event of our existence and every relationship we share in Him. The joy of the Lord truly is our strength.