HOW TO HAVE UNSPEAKABLE JOY

In the rush and rigors of leadership, it’s important to have regular encounters with God that cause our souls to soar. While these moments can’t be manufactured, we can position ourselves to experience inexpressible times of joy with God that characterize our lives.

A few years ago, I had one of these moments with a treasured friend. We’d been on a meaningful spiritual retreat together, and afterwards debriefed over generous slices of chocolate cake with peanut butter icing. In between delectable mouthfuls, she said, “I love you, Lisa Hosler!” It was unplanned by her, unexpected by me—and swelled both of our hearts. It became the capstone of our time together.

4 Elements of Memorable Encounters with God

• Togetherness. If you aren’t consciously spending time with God, you’re unlikely to experience the joy of His presence. Make time and take time to be alone with your Father.

• Communication. Interaction with God can happen in many ways—praying out loud, praying silently, journaling, etc. Most of all, remember to listen.

• Feasting. Think about it—food is often part of the equation when friends gather for fellowship. Even better than chocolate cake, the food of God’s Word is “sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb” (Psalm 19:10b ESV). Devour it and savor it.

• Intimacy. As you fellowship with God, express your love to Him and receive the outpourings of His love toward you. Some will resemble Niagara Falls; others will be like a droplet of rain. Either way, God’s affirmations are supernaturally replenishing.

This morning as I sat outside to be with God, I noticed the mist across the fields and the way it dimmed the distant trees. The birds were quieter than usual. Everything seemed hushed, muted. I had a big day ahead of me, and its components started to clamor in my mind.

Just then I sensed the Lord saying, “I’m right here with you, Lisa, enjoying the morning.” A simple declaration of His presence with me, His desire to be with me. And a subtle reminder to “enjoy” before embracing the responsibilities of the day.

It’s easy to become frustrated in the fray of leadership. But leaders who commune with God have an uncontainable wellspring of joy deep within their souls.

“Leaders who commune with God have an uncontainable wellspring of joy deep within their souls.”

- Lisa Hosler

Although you haven’t seen Jesus, you still love Him.

Although you don’t yet see Him, you do believe in Him

and celebrate with a joy that is glorious and beyond words.

1 Peter 1:8 (VOICE)

In the Comment Section below, share about a simple experience of inexpressible joy as you spent time with the Lord.