Joy Unspeakable?

Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:8

Oh how marvelous the idea of joy unpeakable. Joy that is inexpressible and glorious. Joy that only comes from the God of the universe through his son our Lord Jesus Christ. That's what each of us has with Jesus. Even when our earthly circumstances in this fallen world are pushing us down, seemingly crushing our spirits within we have to hang on to Him, we have to persevere by His strength not ours.

In this verse, Peter, the rock, as Jesus called him is writing to the members of the churches scattered by persecution. The people of the first centruy church who were being driven into hiding or being tortured and killed for their faith. The 'christ-ones' who refused to bow to the Roman empire. He is reminding them that although they had not seen Jesus in the flesh, their faith in Him would be honored. In a verse just prior to this he speaks of the refining fire and how trying times strengthen our faith and our resolve to cling to it in times of great trial. But he reminds them what is truly worthwhile, Jesus. It's through their relationship to Him and the Father that they have the promise of the eternal salvation of their souls. By focusing wholly on Jesus and the ultimate goal instead of their circumstances they can experience joy even in hardship. Not just any joy, or even a just a little joy, but joy that is inexpressible and glorious! We as believers have that same promise from the God who is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.