But of the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions.” (Heb. 1:8-9) “I am coming to you now (Father), but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.” (John 17:13)
Dear Lord Jesus, there’s really nothing that affects my life more than how I think about you. The more I see you everywhere in the Scriptures, the more I understand why you alone are worthy of our adoration, affection, and allegiance. I expect to say the same thing ten thousand years from now.
I marvel at the joy with which you rule the world, love righteousness and hate wickedness—indeed, it deepens my peace and fuels my hope. You delight in crushing evil and you rejoice in making all things new—there is no other King like you. Indeed, your kingdom is a kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Rom. 14:7). The Father has placed the government of the entire cosmos on your shoulders, and your reign of grace and peace is expanding all the time. Hallelujah, many times over.
But I also marvel at your request for the Father to grant us the fullness of your joy—the same joy you’ve eternally enjoyed within the Godhead (John 17:13). Thank you for caring about our joy. As our joy is refreshed and increased, may it be the fire we need for doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. May your gladness encourage us when we grow weary in the battle, are tempted to lose heart, and withdraw into unbelief.
Lord Jesus, Satan was crushed under your feet on the cross, and he will soon be crushed underour feet at your return (Rom. 16:20). Therefore, our labors in you are never in vain. Your throne will last forever, your kingdom will never end, and your joy will never abate. So very Amen we pray, in your triumphant and loving name.