“And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit” [Acts 13:52(NIV)]

“And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit”. The Holy Spirit brings joy – it is a fruit of the Spirit. The disciples were filled with the joy of the Spirit because they had obeyed God’s voice and faithfully proclaimed His Word. It was not the joy of ease and acceptance for they had been persecuted and expelled from the region. Their joy was not one of lightness and hilarity. It was from deep down within their being whence Jesus said would flow rivers of living water. It was the joy that is known by all the labourers in the gospel – the soul-winner’s joy for the Lord had sent them forth to reap souls for the kingdom. The disciples had seen many honour the Word and believe the gospel. Other joy depends upon outward circumstances. Be filled with the Holy Spirit and know joy from within.