Joy #47: Stop & Ponder

Think of the last time you were part of community rejoicing or celebration. (A wedding, a party, a time of thanksgiving/praise) How does “together” joy compare with the joy we might seek as individuals?

In revelation, we see the multitude praising God in loud, joyful expression. Could you see yourself as one of those ‘in a vast throng shouting’ today? How might you cultivate growth in ‘together’ expressions joy?

When is a time you felt a leader sought after your joy? What form of expression did this take? How have you seen this done well, or poorly?

What might it look like for you to “seek the joy of your people?” How does the example of Jesus, the ultimate leader who initiates our joy, inform your thoughts?

A final question I posed to myself:
If you are struggling to find joy of your own, can you seek joy for others?

My thoughs…
Leadership is not taking others to the place you have arrived. It is guiding others along where you are going. You don’t have to “have joy” in order to “offer it”. You just have to know in whom it is found... (And I'll add-- But if I seem to be lacking it entirely, my witness surely isn't convincing. So in those times, it's time to stop and ask Him why.)