Supernatural Strength – The Joy of the Lord

It’s easy to find ourselves weighed down by trials, challenges, and uncertainties in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. Yet, as believers, we are called to tap into a source of supernatural strength—the joy of the Lord. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in the unshakable foundation of our faith in God.

The Kingdom of God: A Paradigm of Joy

Romans 14:17 (NKJV) reminds us, “for the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” The Kingdom of God is not just a future hope but a present reality we can access and operate within today. It represents the realm of God—the supernatural—where the fruits of the Spirit, including righteousness, peace, and joy, abound.

Jesus proclaimed the Kingdom of God, announcing that it is now and at hand. To enter and operate in this Kingdom, we must receive it with the simplicity and trust of a child. The Kingdom is a paradigm, a dimension that is both now and future, and it offers us the ability to live in the fullness of God’s supernatural provision.

Joy vs. Happiness: Understanding the Difference

The world often equates joy with happiness, but the Bible clearly distinguishes between the two. Happiness is tied to external circumstances—fleeting and dependent on what happens around us. Joy, however, is an internal state deeply rooted in our relationship with God. 

James 1:2-4 encourages us, “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” Trials and tests will come, but the depth of your joy during these times reflects the maturity of your faith and the soundness of your mind. 

“The depth of your joy during trials reflects the maturity of your faith and the soundness of mind.” Shaun Smit.

Nehemiah 8:10 further reinforces this truth: “for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” This joy, not our circumstances, gives us the strength to persevere and overcome.

David’s Declaration: Trusting in God’s Protection

Psalm 27:5-6 (NKJV) offers a powerful declaration of faith: “For in the time of trouble, He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock. And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me; Therefore, I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.”

David understood that the Lord’s protection is our refuge in times of trouble. He knew that God would hide him in His pavilion, in the secret place of His presence, setting him upon a solid foundation—a rock that cannot be shaken. This assurance allowed David to respond with outward displays of faith, offering sacrifices of joy and singing praises to the Lord.

Genuine Faith: Seeing Victory in Every Situation

Smith Wigglesworth once said, “Real faith has perfect peace and joy and a shout at any time. It always sees the victory.” This kind of faith is not passive; it actively engages with God’s promises, standing firm on His Word and trusting in His timing. When we cultivate this kind of faith, we can face any trial with a shout of joy, knowing that victory is assured.

Call to Action: Aligning with the Kingdom of God

To live in alignment with the Kingdom of God, here are three spiritual alignments that will empower you to walk in supernatural strength:

1. Seek the Lord’s Face (not just His hand) – Pursue a deep relationship with God, not just for what He can do for you, but for who He is. Matthew 6:33 reminds us to “seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

2. Pursue Peace: Enter the Rest of God – Philippians 4:7 encourages us to let “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” This peace is a gift from God, a place of rest amid life’s storms.

3. Embrace Joy: Let the Joy of the Lord Be Your Strength – As Psalm 27:6 and Nehemiah 8:10 remind us, joy is a powerful force. It is not just a feeling but a spiritual strength that enables us to overcome adversity and walk in victory.

Believe in Supernatural Impartation of Joy and Peace

As we align ourselves with God’s Kingdom, we can start to believe in a supernatural impartation of joy and peace. Romans 15:13 declares, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

The Holy Spirit is not just the distributor of gifts but also the source of hope, peace, and joy. When we allow the Holy Spirit to fill us, we are empowered to live a life marked by these Kingdom realities, even in the face of trials and challenges.

Conclusion: Standing Firm on God’s Promises

In times of trouble, remember that God is your refuge. Seek His presence, stand firm on His promises, and let the joy of the Lord be your strength. No matter what challenges you face, God’s protection is not temporary. He will uphold you, setting you on a firm foundation and ensuring you rise above every storm.

As you walk in this supernatural strength, let your life be a testimony of God’s power and love, reflecting the righteousness, peace, and joy that define His Kingdom.

This blog was inspired by Ps Shaun’s message at Faith Legacy Believers Church on the 18th of August, 2024. You can watch the full message below.