Walking the Way of Redeemed Joy
A devotional for Friday
Scripture
A road will be there and a way; it will be called the Holy Way. The unclean will not travel on it, but it will be for the one who walks the path. Fools will not wander on it. There will be no lion there, and no vicious beast will go up on it; they will not be found there. But the redeemed will walk on it, and the ransomed of the LORD will return and come to Zion with singing, crowned with unending joy. Joy and gladness will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee.
Isaiah 35:8-10
Reflection
Happiness depends on safety, comfort, and predictability. Joy is rooted in redemption. Isaiah describes a highway called the Way of Holiness, reserved for the redeemed. This road is not holy because it is easy, but because of who walks on it. God promises protection, belonging, and everlasting joy for those He has rescued. Joy is not earned; it is received through surrender. The destination is filled with singing, gladness, and freedom from sorrow. The highway represents a life shaped by God’s salvation and direction. Those who walk this way are secure not because life is easy, but because God is faithful. Happiness seeks control; joy rests in trust. The redeemed are marked by joy that outlasts suffering and fear. Even now, we experience glimpses of this eternal joy. One day, sorrow and sighing will fully disappear in God’s presence.
Question/Challenge
Are you walking in your own strength, or surrendering daily to the joy that comes from being redeemed by Christ?