What exactly is joy and how do you maintain it when your world is crumbling around you? How do you feel joy in the midst of devastating news? How do you feel joy when friends desert you?
It is easy to feel joy when things are going right but when your world tumbles down around you it is a whole new thing. The main thing is keeping the right focus and not dwelling on the negative. If you constantly get down into that pity pit or keep thinking of worse case scenarios then of course it will be hard to feel joy. The word 'feel' is key in this. Do not let feelings rule your world because they are so changeable.
The best way to have joy is to stay focused on the word of God. If you are feeling down in the dumps certainly dwelling on bad news is not the cure for lifting your spirits to a higher level.
Joy is described as intense happiness but it is not or should not be dependent upon your circumstances. It can be achieved by keeping your mind on God's word. Dwelling on things such as the 'what ifs' of life and speculating on things can create doubt and worry and thus be 'joy robbers'. People in your life may be hurtful and try to be a 'joy robber' but you can be victorious and overcome this.
The word joy can also be an acronym for Jesus First, Others second, Yourself last. If you can try to live this way, remembering the J.O.Y. Acronym, then life will be better. Helping others and taking your mind off yourself is always an effective remedy.
James 1:2-3 says "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials ,knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience."
"Are you kidding? You want me to be joyful in my trials? Are you some kind of nut? " The Bible says to and that is good enough for me. If you are a believer rejoice that you will be in heaven with Jesus. (See Luke 10:20).
John 15:11 says "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete."
Just remember that 'Jesus loves you this I know for the Bible tells me so.'
PRAYER: Lord I thank you for being with me in good times and in not so good times. Help me as I seek to focus on your word and fill my life with your joy despite any negative circumstances. In Jesus name. Amen!
Assignment: Read Psalm 103
Click on link to worship the Lord in song this beautiful Sunday.
http://youtu.be/b04KyG0E8zQ
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