“Oh sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things!” Psalm 98:1
If you’re following an Advent calendar, the theme this past Sunday was Joy. The Lexham Bible Dictionary defines biblical joy as a deep-seated gladness that comes from a relationship with God, not merely from external circumstances. Joy is one of the expressions of the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22, reminding us that true joy is a work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It’s a joy cultivated in our hearts as we walk with the Lord. A joy that stirs our hearts to sing to the Lord a new song, as the Psalmist writes, celebrating God’s goodness in our lives.
As we think about joy in this Advent season, it’s a great time to reflect on how joy can transform our marriages and relationships. One of the ways joy can be expressed is through our countenance. Our countenance without saying a word can express deep connection, or it can convey distance and rejection. We choose what we will allow to dictate whether our countenance will be joyful or resentful. It’s not that everything in life falls into place the way we want, but it does mean that when things don’t seem to go as we’d expect we focus on God’s goodness, grace, mercy, love, forgiveness, and sovereignty. Our hearts choose joy, and with that, closeness to God and our spouse.
How can you bring the gift of joy into your marriage relationship this week? Consider sharing a word of encouragement (send that encouraging text now), offering forgiveness (stop stewing), or simply being present (reach out and hold hands) with your spouse. Let the joy of the Lord overflow in your interactions, pointing others to the Lord’s faithfulness and love.
