“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.”Romans 14:17.
(FLB 121.1)
The promises are, “A new heart will I give you” ; “I will put my Spirit within you.”Ezekiel 36:26. This provision is made for us through the merit of Christ′s righteousness: “And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.”Isaiah 32:17. Those who experience the change spoken of in these words will find that their restlessness and disquietude are all taken away, and they will find rest unto their souls in Christ. His merit, His righteousness, are imputed to the believing soul, and the believer has inward peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.
(FLB 121.2)
The Lord would have all His sons and daughters happy, peaceful, and obedient....
(FLB 121.3)
Happiness that is sought from selfish motives, outside of the path of duty, is ill-balanced, fitful, and transitory; it passes away, and the soul is filled with loneliness and sorrow; but there is joy and satisfaction in the service of God; the Christian is not left to walk in uncertain paths; he is not left to vain regrets and disappointments. If we do not have the pleasures of this life, we may still be joyful in looking to the life beyond.
(FLB 121.4)
But even here Christians may have the joy of communion with Christ; they may have the light of His love, the perpetual comfort of His presence. Every step in life may bring us closer to Jesus, may give us a deeper experience of His love, and may bring us one step nearer to the blessed home of peace.
(FLB 121.5)
There is peace in believing, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Believing brings peace, and trusting in God brings joy. Believe, believe! my soul says, believe. Rest in God. He is able to keep that which you have committed to His trust. He will bring you off more than conqueror through Him who hath loved you.
(FLB 121.6)