“I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil” (Psalm 119:162).

The joy of the Lord is independent of our feelings, for nothing is more changeable and unreliable than our feelings. Feelings are the expression of emotional joy or sadness. This imperfect, inconsistent joy must become perfect and consistent through the unchanging joy of the Lord. Everything changes, but He does not change. It is written of Him, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever” (Hebrews 13:8). If we do not reject the sword of the Word, then we do not reject Jesus Christ either. Then we will abide in Him and our joy will be complete—perfect. Your soul will lift itself up to the Lord and His joy. His unchanging, eternal joy will be so strong in you that you can rejoice, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” Those who have this joy in the Lord are regally independent of their own feelings, whether these are joyful or sad. The joy of the Lord is only born out of inward distress; thus, it is completely independent of outward circumstances.