Welcome to the Prayers of Rest podcast. I'm your host, Asherita Chuchu, and this season we're praying through the fruitful life. What does it look like to bear the fruit of the spirit in our own lives? And rather than view it as a checklist, these are God's

promises of the work that he wants to do in our lives as we abide in him. If that resonates

with your heart, and specifically this week, if you long to be a more joyful person, then I hope

you stay tuned and listen to the rest of this episode as we pray through the joy of the spirit

in us. As we begin, find a quiet place and take a deep breath as we enter into God's presence together.

Today's reading is 1 Peter 1.

1.1. Verse 8 through 9.

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.

Let's begin by reciting God's goodness, praising Him for who he is and for what he has done in our lives. Oh Lord God, thank you that you are a God of joy. You are the God who rejoices over your people with songs of celebration.

You, Lord Jesus, for the joy set before you, endured the cross, scorning its shame, and

sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

That joy is what kept you going, Jesus, even in the hard times.

Thank you, God, that you long to develop in us and to create in us the fruit of your spirit,

which includes joy.

And I praise you that in your presence is fullness of joy and at your right hand our pleasures

forevermore. How good you are, God, that you long to give us the joys of heaven, the wonders of your love,

the goodness of your presence. And so we rejoice in you, oh God, of our salvation. We rejoice in you

today. So in the next few moments, praise God for how He has shown His goodness in your life.

How has he filled your mouth with songs of joy?

Where in your life is he working his joy in your heart through His Spirit's work. We continue now by expressing our neediness, confessing our neediness, confessing our need for God and for his forgiveness.

And so, Lord, I confess that so often I run to all the wrong places for joy.

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