To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:4-5)

What brings you joy? What will cause you to rejoice? In our scripture passage this morning, Peter gives us a strong encouragement and reminder of the hope that we have inherited a place in Heaven. He writes this encouragement to believers who are suffering persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ. He encourages them to “greatly rejoice” (v.6). My friend, you can rejoice this morning and be filled with “joy unspeakable” because you are a child of God and He has a place prepared for you in Heaven. True joy stems from knowing God through an eternal relationship by faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus told His disciples of the approaching sorrows that they would face. In John 16:22 He told them, “And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.” Wow, what amazing joy we have by faith in Jesus Christ. Did you hear what He said? “No man taketh from you.” The child of God has a joy that no man can take away. However, the joy within us is suppressed and overshadowed by everyday stresses and strains. The enemy wants no more than overwhelm you with circumstances that suppress and rob our joy in Christ. Do not give the enemy his delight of seeing you hide the joy of Christ that is within you. “You are the light of the world” Mt 5:14, and the joy of Christ is the source of the light within you. Do not hide it under a basket, but let your light so shine among me that they glorify your Father in Heaven. Father, thank You for the joy in Jesus Christ our Lord. Thank You for the inheritance that awaits us, “reserved in Heaven” and “ready to be revealed in the last time.” Today, when circumstances change and challenge me within, help to lift my eyes to Heaven, for it is there that I will find “the power of God through faith unto salvation.” In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.