Joy is a Personal Choice

Daily Scripture Threshing for Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Today’s Text: Habakkuk 3:17-19

Key Verse: Habakkuk 3:17 (ESV): “Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls.”

The spirit behind this intensely enlivening scripture can comfort any disconsolate soul — whether ravaged in Ukraine, or displaced in Florida fire, or facing the uncertainty and unclarity of life in Africa. A totally true, triumphant and unalloyed joy is possible even in situations when ordinary courses of things seem to promise the very opposite. Like Habakkuk’s, our situations might not be what we personally expect or desire; but we can have joy.

The figures of speech used by Habakkuk directly speaks to us today: the fig symbolizing food and commerce; the vine represents rich juices, refreshing shade, and a life of prosperity; and the olive marks abundance and surplus. Israel slided into an adverse situation in which all above sources were cut off, and failed expectation befell their nation when the Chaldeans invaded their land. And whereas this ravaged their polity, prosperity and prospect, we can learn from this prophet that joy does not come from things, but from within — from the inner peace that comes from a personal relationship with God.

Our lives do not consist in the abundance of things lavished upon us, or in the debasing pains brought upon us. Rejoicing in the Lord was Habakkuk’s personal decision. It can really be our choice too. Habakkuk chose to allow only his elevating encounter with God to influence his emotions in spite of all negative developments. Brethren, let us learn the joy that such confidence brings. Let us remember to pray for our brethren in Ukraine and around the world as well. Though life seems adverse, to rejoice is a personal choice. Whether by Ahava, or at war, we can break forth in our happy songs of Zion.

Quote for the Day: “Faith that sings in fair weather must not fail to sing though the sun hides its smiles.” (Simon Olatunji)

Prayer: Dear Lord, in a world in which the wicked prosper by making life difficult for others, and men and women are searching for answers, comfort our souls, O Lord, and kindle the flame of Your love and joy in our hearts — in Jesus’ name. Amen.

With all my Love and Prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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[Daily Scripture Threshing is a devotional guide of The House of Prayer Evangel Church USA distributed for free use by individuals, small groups, families and Christian churches]

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