Be Strong in Grace
📖 “You therefore, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” — 2 Timothy 2:1 (BSB)
Joy is not found in chasing happiness, nor is it dependent on favorable circumstances. It flows from the life of Christ within—the One who is our unshakable foundation and unending source of peace.
To walk in this joy, we rest in His finished work, knowing that we are made right with God. The psalmist declares, “Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart” (Psalm 97:11). Christ has given us His righteousness, and with it, He has planted within us a joy that does not wither under trials.
We experience this joy when we pour out the life He has given us, living for others rather than for ourselves. Jesus Himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). In yielding to His Spirit, we discover the paradox that true fulfillment comes not from grasping, but from releasing.
And when all else fades—when feelings, situations, and earthly securities seem to shift like sand—we remain anchored in Him. We count it all joy, not because of what we see, but because of who He is. “The joy of the Lord is your strength”(Nehemiah 8:10). He is ever faithful, and as we walk in step with Him, His Spirit whispers His pleasure over our faithfulness, welcoming us deeper into the joy of His presence.
A Picture of Trust
Imagine a musician who has trained for years, internalizing every note and technique. When the moment comes to perform, they do not strive or second-guess but simply allow the music to flow, trusting the preparation already done. Likewise, we do not need to struggle for joy or strength—we rest in the grace already given, allowing Christ’s life to be expressed through us.
Prayer of Confidence
Father, You have made us strong in the grace of Christ. Your joy is planted deep within, a wellspring that never runs dry. We trust You today, knowing that whatever comes, we are complete in You. Thank You for calling us to live with open hands, to love as You love, and to rest in the sufficiency of Your life within us. Amen.
📸 Photo from Unsplash
đź“ť Devotional excerpt from Days of Heaven