Joy #45: Joy Together

Where do we see “joy together” in the Word?

“And rejoice before the LORD your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name — you, your sons and daughters, your menservants and maidservants, the Levites in your towns, and the aliens, the fatherless and the widows living among you.” (Deuteronomy 16:11, 14)

“The whole assembly then agreed to celebrate the festival seven more days; so for another seven days they celebrated joyfully.” 2 Chronicles 30:23-24

“Already he who reaps is receiving wages, and is gathering fruit for life eternal; that he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together.” John 4:36

If anyone could “go it alone”, surely the apostle Paul didn’t need any outside encouragement, right?

“And I rejoice over the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus; because they have supplied what was lacking on your part. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours.” 1 Corinthians 16:17-18

“But, brothers, when we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. 18 For we wanted to come to you-certainly I, Paul, did, again and again-but Satan stopped us. 19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20 Indeed, you are our glory and joy.” 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20

Did you notice even Satan tries to stop community fellowship?

And there are no individual praise scenes in heaven:

After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting: "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are his judgments…” Revelation 19:1-2

So perhaps if joy is eluding you, maybe the problem is not “you.” Maybe He wants you to discover the joy of His people!

(This is, by the way, why this blog is titled “Bring ME to Jesus.” It’s something I need from you too!)