Joshua 23:1-16; Isaiah 17:1-18:7; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17
To give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. Isaiah 61:3
Difficult circumstances often find their way into our lives, stifling our joy and enveloping us in a spirit of heaviness. In times like these we need to ask ourselves where our joy comes from? Our outward circumstances need not affect our inner joy. Ultimately our joy comes from Christ dwelling within us. When this is fully realized, it will change our perspective, enabling us to break free of discouragement, replacing it with the quiet inner joy of the Lord. —E. V.
Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness,
Let the joy of gladness flow down from Your throne;
Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness,
Your joy is my strength alone, my strength alone. —Robin Marks