“for there was joy in Israel” [I Chronicles 12:40(NIV)]

“for there was joy in Israel”. This was because they (Israel) had a godly leader. When the leader is appointed by the Lord, joy in one form or another is the experience of those so led.
The way all kinds of men swore allegiance to David from every corner of the kingdom was a joy to behold.
The sense of purpose coupled with the prospect of removing the intrigue and corruption prevalent in the latter part of Saul’s reign made for joy among the people.
Indeed, it was only when David left his pristine love and devotion for the Lord that this joy began to wane.
This is a picture of the followers of the Lord in our day. When disciples all over the world love the Lord and engage in His service it is a cause for joy. As long as we refuse to be deflected from Jesus, it will stay that way.