Abiding in Christ is not immunity from trials and tribulation but peace in the midst of them. God’s guidance is often by shutting doors. Love slams doors as well as opening them.

Joy in our Christian life is the results of faithful, trusting acceptance of God’s Will when it doesn’t seem to be joyous.

Paul had learned this lesson of slammed doors when he said “our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” We need to expect rebuffs from our Lord until this is learned – it is the only way. Man’s way leads to a joyless end – God’s way leads to endless joy!