The Unbroken Chain

Lamentations 5:15
15Joy is gone from our hearts; our dancing has turned to mourning.

Joy is happiness. But when the joy is gone, it's visible. There was a reason Israel was unhappy. Israel had done the unthinkable in the eyes of God and therefore paid for it with the loss of joy, laughter and happiness, even peace of mind. Israel turned to Egypt and Assyria continually for their protection, for their necessities instead of turning to the Lord. Israel sought after the enemy to sustain them but did not think about the cost they would have to pay. Israel had to be at the mercy of Egypt and Assyria. And eventually, Egypt and Assyria turned on them. The Lord already knew this would happen and that's why He didn't want Israel to seek anyone for their needs outside of Him.  How does this relate to you? Temporary or momentary satisfaction provided by anything else outside of the will of God will crumble sooner or later. The smile becomes a frown. Peace becomes grief and the problems feel like an unbroken chain. Egypt and Assyria said whatever had to be said to gain the trust of Israel so they would be indebted to them. Who has said or promised you whatever needed to gain your trust? What did God tell you in regards to them? Did you even seek God?  When God says don't trust the ways of man but trust His way, there's a reason. When God tells you don't seek alliances with the enemy to obtain anything, He means it. He knows that sooner or later you will have more trouble then you are aware of. He knows the peace He's provided to you will be lost at your own doing. You don't have to lose your joy and peace if you seek God FIRST not last. The unbroken chain of problems and discord doesn't have to be when your obedient to God.

Remember to check out my girl Stubbs of the Leap of Faith Network from 6-9am ET on www.live365.com and listen for the Get Your JOY In The Morning segment!