Why am I not filled with joy?
Scripture:
Acts 13:47-52
47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us:
“ ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles,
that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”
48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.
49 The word of the Lord spread through the whole region.50 But the Jews incited the God‑fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region.51 So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium.
52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Observation:
The disciples felt the Lord telling them to set apart Paul and Barnabas for a missionary journey to the Gentiles. In verse 47 it is clear they know their mission, “I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.” – They have a clear mission and they are confident in that mission. Those whom they are ministering to are filled with joy and turn to the Lord for salvation. But in the midst of all of this they run into persecution and resistance from the leading Jewish officials and prominent families of that region. They are basically run out of town and so, like Jesus taught them, they shake the dust off their feet and go on their way “filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.”
Application:
Is ministry a joy for me? Do I have clarity of vision and purpose? Am I able to see past frustrations and resistance and even persecution because of the clear calling on my heart? I don’t think so. I feel I am in a time of uncertainty. Ministry can become frustrating and unclear. I am trying to regain vision and purpose but quite honestly I’m not totally sure where I’m supposed to be going. Unlike the apostles in this situation I don’t have a clear vision. I am not having a renewed filling of joy and the Holy Spirit. Instead of being “on purpose” I feel as if I’m wandering a bit.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for allowing me to recognize this and for bringing this to my attention. When I see the work and the life of the apostles, it is clear how far I am from walking in true dynamic ministry. I don’t know if that means I need to be on the mission field (although I’m not opposed to that) but I do need to be on mission. God help me to cut away the things and the attitudes that keep me from being effective and purposeful for you. Forgive me for falling into discouragement so quickly. What are the things on my heart that I need to pursue? What are the time killers and ministry distractions I need to let go of? I pray for your wisdom and clarity today. Thank You Lord for all You have done in my life.
