12/09/2022 - FILLED WITH JOY

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Greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, that I may be filled with joy,  2 Timothy 1.4

When we know that a person is from God, living at His feet, we want to be next to them, to seek the Father’s face together and receive the blessings. As for those who do not truly know the Lord, we better stay away from them. Their hearts can cause us pain, for they are sold to evil: Who rejoice in doing evil, and delight in the perversity of the wicked; (Proverbs 2.14).

Those who fear the Lord are known for what they say. You can have any conversation with them and you will see that almost always, they quote the Word (Colossians 4.6). But if someone is just trying to show himself a servant of God, pay attention to the way they talk and answer your questions. If the conversation is about some brutal evil done to another, or against a child, for example, they will say that the guilty one must be killed.

Paul told Timothy that he longed to see him, because he remembered his tears, suggesting that they showed his fear of the Most High. You can trust those who respect the Lord, but stay away from unbelievers, even though they claim to be servants of Heaven. The saved show their commitment to God. But the immature in faith, when they can, will stretch out their hand to dishonesty. Stay alert!

It’s good not to forget the joyful moments experienced with those who live in the presence of the Lord. Not only do they gladden our hearts, but we feel that the next meeting will be even more enjoyable. That is why Paul asked the Most High for permission to experience this communion once again. Those who have Jesus as their Shepherd and Lord will always act with caution, even because Satan transforms himself into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11.14). Mercy!

True tears can express various feelings, even repentance, peace, and communion with the Almighty. However, false ones carry no message and sometimes cause disgust. The person who has had an encounter with God will never show himself to be naive, covetous or self-asserting. The person who has the devil behind their friendship – on the other hand – is dangerous, their purpose is impure, and he will be cast out of the Father’s house (Matthew 13.41,42).

Enjoy the moments of the Lord’s visitation, because they are essential. When He visits us, operations of His power can happen. So, stay on the Path and maintain the fear of the Word of the Most High. There is no deception in Him. Be constant in your heavenly Father’s house, making an effort to be in the services, and your life will be straightened out. God is good and faithful!

Paul said that when he saw Timothy, his soul would be filled with joy because of the work that God would do in both of them. Similarly, we should be ready to participate in the wonders of the Lord. Scripture states: For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them (Matthew 18.20). The Lord visits them and blesses them. After all, He only has good things in store for His children!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares