1 Peter 1:8 (NIV) Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, COMMENTARY PEARL My grandchildren live several states away, but I think of them every day. Other than FaceTime calls, I can't physically see them. I can look at the photos hanging on the wall. I smile at their favorite books that fill my shelves and often read to them over the phone. I also hum songs we sang together. Until the next visit, I'll miss the tangible ability to hug them, to be with them in person. Yet I love them. I know they are enjoying life, laughing, and playing. Their very existence fills me with joy. I sometimes complain to Jesus that it's challenging to follow Him when I can't see Him or hear His audible voice. I can't touch Him as the first disciples could. I've learned about Him through Scripture and the truth passed down through generations. I've experienced His spirit in worship and prayer. But I long to be concretely in His presence. Today, Jesus reminded me of how much joy I feel in my grandchildren, even when I'm not physically present with them. Like my grandchildren, Jesus doesn't cease to exist just because I can't see Him (John 20:29). He is with me, and that fills me with joy. Just as I eagerly anticipate the next visit with my grandchildren, I'm excited to know that one day I'll stand in the presence of Jesus. In the end, believing is seeing. Sharon Hinck Faith Step: List people who give you joy even when you can't see them. Ask Jesus to increase your belief until you see Him in eternity. [Mornings With Jesus 2023 Devotional by Guideposts and Zondervan] CLOSING PEARL Unspeakable Joy God has many ways of drawing us to Himself. He sometimes seems to hide Himself from us. But faith alone ought to be our support. Faith is the foundation of our confidence. We must put all our faith in God. He will not fail us in time of need. I do not know how God will dispose of me, but I am always happy. All the world suffers and I, who deserve the severest discipline, feel joys so continual and great that I can scarcely contain them. - Letter 12 The King James translation uses the phrase "joy unspeakable." Imagine a joy so incredible that you cannot fully describe it. This type of joy cannot be attached to anything in this world - not to your spouse, your job, your children, or your possessions - which may bring you happiness and pleasure but is ultimately dependent on circumstances. Since we cannot completely control our circumstances, we will constantly be disappointed. We can, however, rejoice knowing there's a supernatural joy available to us in Christ, not dependent on circumstance but on the mighty power and love of God. [The Practice of the Presence of God: 40 Day Devotional by Brother Lawrence/Alan Vermilye] LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY 1 Peter 1:8: Joy Like No Other! http://www.abible.com/devotions/2021/20210113-1037.html http://www.abible.com/devotions/2017/20170218-1346.html YOUR COMMENTS If anyone has a paraphrase, commentary or testimony on this passage of Scripture, either personal or otherwise, I would be interested in hearing from you. Thanks in advance and let's keep uplifting Jesus that all might be drawn to Him. Fred Gibbs LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT https://abible.com/links/