Thursday - Abiding Joy
WEEK THREE - JOY
By Martha Grice • To The Nations
Abiding Joy
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John 15:9–11
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
In my early fifties, the Lord said to me, “Take an early retirement. I’m going to send you to the nations.” I immediately began training my replacement, though I had no money, no clear plan, and no idea how the call would unfold. Yet soon the Lord began opening doors to carry teams into countries where heartbreaking situations awaited us.
Through the eyes of the Father, we saw local pastors barely surviving and children showing signs of malnutrition—without shoes, proper clothing, or even smiles. Some were so poor they had never even seen or held a toy.
As the Father’s love grew in our hearts, we learned to pack not only Bibles, tracts, and provisions, but to fill every corner of our luggage with small gifts and toys. When we walked into a room and began handing them out, the atmosphere shifted—sorrow was replaced with laughter and joy.
Yet that kind of joy could not compare to the deeper, lasting joy that came when they received the Father’s love and accepted His Son, Jesus, as their Savior. Lives were transformed by the joy of His presence—an abiding joy that would never fade.
When I took that first step of faith so many years ago, I had no idea the journey on which I was embarking—a journey that, by His grace, has been more fulfilling and fruitful than I ever could have imagined. Over and over again, I’ve experienced God’s faithfulness and provision. I’ve learned that the path to abiding joy often begins with one simple yes to Him.
PRAYER:
Father, during this holy Advent season, fill my heart with abiding joy through a living relationship with Jesus. Give me the grace to say yes to where you lead today. Amen.
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To The Nations Ministries evangelizes through mission trips to provide needed resources and assistance to pastors, leaders, churches, teachers, and communities.
This is accomplished by education and training workshops, conferences, mentoring and provision of necessary equipment and supplies to spread Gospel throughout the nations.
We appreciate your prayers and support.
CONTACT US:
To The Nations Ministries
P. O. Box 426
Waycross, GA 31502