Joy Comes in the Morning

John 16:6: But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart.

Truth, especially in regard to God’s eternal purposes, includes sorrow.  The followers of the Lord would soon experience distress as never before at the crucifixion of their Master. Though the disciples could not fully comprehend Jesus’ words until they lived through the fulfillment thereof, this somber moment filled their hearts with an inexplicable sadness.  Yet, in a few days, they would understand that the sorrow-filled season was merely a passageway to a new day bursting with joy; not only a new day, but a promised dispensation complete with new and eternal life. Jesus had promised as much to provide hope as a counterbalance to the grief they would realize.

John 16:20, 22: Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. 22 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.

Jesus not only offered assurance that joy would replace sorrow in the disciples’ hearts, but a joy which could not be stolen from them!  In this context, life experience would suggest these men could not fathom any future happiness, much less lasting joy. Yet, this was a promise, and God cannot lie (Titus 1:2). 

The promises of God are given to inspire faith and confidence in Him.  Faith, in turn, produces patient perseverance in trying times. God’s promises to man are often conditional.  Unswerving faith is how the conditions are met, and the promises obtained.

Habakkuk 2:3 (TLB): But these things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!

Ps 30:5: … weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.