Choose Joy today
Do you remember the acronym for JOY? Jesus-Others-Yourself. Anytime I think of the word Joy, I think of this. I, of course, know that it may not really stand for that but if you think about it, it does make sense. You put Jesus first, Others second and then Yourself, you should have Joy.
Do you know there is a difference between Joy and Happiness? I have a few thoughts on this:
· Happiness is typically a more fleeting emotion, often sparked by a particular moment or event that brings a sense of excitement or exhilaration.
· Joy, on the other hand, is a more long-lasting state of being, characterized by contentment and satisfaction with life overall.
· Happiness is a feeling based on circumstances.
· Joy is an attitude that defies circumstances.
· Happiness is an outward expression.
· Joy is an inward peace.
John 15:11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
Psalm 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures evermore.
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
What great verses. To know that our Father, our heavenly Father, wants us to have joy. And not just joy, but fullness of joy! In Him we have joy, peace and hope. It is ours for the taking!
Four things to Keep in Mind
1. Keep choosing JOY despite your circumstances. This doesn’t mean ignoring your pain and grief but rather choosing to trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of trials, pain and grief. 1 Thess 5:16-17 Rejoice always, pray without ceasing;
2. Keep practicing thankfulness. Being thankful for all He has done for us is a major key to joy, in my humble opinion! 1 Thess 5:18 Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
3. Keep fellowship with those who will encourage you, pray for you, and support you. Surround yourself with those who are “joy filled” and have a good outlook/attitude on life and not a “feeling sorry for myself” mentality on life.
4. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Understand that joy is a gift from Him. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such there is no law. Not fruits plural but fruit singular. We don’t get to pick and choose which fruit we want on which day we want. It is ONE fruit. Keeping JOY for the Christian is choosing to recognize that it is a gift from God!
CHOOSE JOY TODAY! Psalm 95:1-3 Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.
Confident in His love
Isaiah 54:10
