Author Gregory Madison

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Philippians 4:4

In 1980, an American songwriter produced a song called Joy and Pain. It referred to it as being like sunshine and rain. I got a greater understanding of that last month.

How do we find joy in the midst of our difficulties and challenges? Isn’t that what every addict seeks? That’s why addiction is more accurately defined as idolatry rather than disease. The comfort and joy that can only be found in God are sought in created things.

What makes you think you will not have any difficulties?

First, let us not pretend we will not face difficulties in life, relationships, or ministry. We live in an imperfect, fallen world. Nothing in this world gives complete satisfaction but God. Your joy is going to be challenged.

Last month, my joy was challenged by an accident on my e-bike. Because I was not patient enough to ride my new bike without the threat of rain, I became stranded as I was returning from a Bible study. Now, this sort of thing is not supposed to happen to you when you are doing God’s will. Right? No, God doesn’t guarantee we won’t have hardship.

My next mistake was my impatience. I failed to patiently wait until the rain stopped before proceeding. I went off a curb, hit a speed bump, and fell. We had a joyful time in the Bible study. Travelling home was joyful. I had to decide if my fall from the bike would end my joy.

When does your joy begin or end?

Immediately, as I hit the ground, many of the things the Lord has taught me came to life. First, I realized how God was still with me. Second, I decided not to wallow in self-pity. Third, I would continue to find my joy in the Lord.

The Lord Jesus said, “in the world you will have tribulation”. We will always have difficulties ministering to those who are overcome by addiction, illnesses, and accidents. Jesus also said to be of good cheer because He has overcome the world, and He would never leave us or forsake us.

One of the things I learned in my 23 years of drug addiction and in overcoming it is that some things can only be learned through suffering. I rejoiced in the Lord when I fell because not only was my body bruised, but my pride and my wallet as well. As a result, I would have to rely upon the grace of God more strongly.

Addiction is largely a matter of what you focus on. Joy depends on focusing on our magnificent Saviour. I was glad to see the sun shine later. If only it had been sooner. I thought of how dark this world continues to become and the need for us to bring the light of Christ to all the misery it endures. Let your light so shine as you find your joy in the Lord!