“And we are writing these things so that our joy may be complete.” – 1 John 1:4 

Scripture reading: Philippians 2:2-9

You are sitting at the table, writing or typing that letter to a loved one. Now, as you are doing that, what do you find yourself writing? Aren’t they the interesting and important things in your life of late? And after a lapse of some time since those things happened, you must have remembered it, in order for you to write it down. It left an impression!

Sadly, though, much of what leaves an impression is of an unhappy nature. Family crises, marriage breakdowns, terrible accidents and juicy gossip are what we can’t help but recall. To think of happy times is more difficult. Recalling that kind of memory goes through an extra layer of fog.

John, however, so much wants to express an ongoing happiness. He declares that our lives are tied to eternity. That’s an assurance able to see us through all those struggles of the present. We are not on our own – our “joy” tells us of our place within a fellowship. We are joined to God and our fellow believers.

Although perfect joy isn’t possible in this world of sin and so perfect fellowship isn’t here yet, we do so much look forward to that time of our joy being made complete. Tied to God’s eternity is the only sure safety rope!

Suggestions for prayer

Thank God for knowing where you are going. Ask Him to now live in the light of that glory.

Rev. Sjirk Bajema currently serves the RCNZ Oamaru, in Oamaru, New Zealand. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.