Joy is essential, and sometimes hard to find while shopping. Today while I was out and about, I came across a good sale. With perseverance, I found a great-looking pair of comfortable shoes. Later in the day, I was surprised to find two right shoes. Unfortunately, I am not saying the shoes were just right; I am saying the box contained two right shoes. Those shoes weren’t working for me. Settling for shoes that don’t fit wasn’t even an option.
Joy is Your Strength
Jesus wants us to experience joy is all areas of our lives. On tough days, we believe that things will never get better. We go through the motions of life, but without any joy. However, joy is essential. Jesus said, “My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” (John 10:10 NLT) On the dark days, we should cry out to our Creator. “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NLT) In prayer, we can ask God to take our difficulties and replace them with joy. “When I am filled with cares, your comfort brings me joy.” (Psalm 94:19 HCSB) Joy is an essential part of our lives. Likewise, “…the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10 NIV) Let’s not settle for living a weak life. Instead, let’s gain strength by celebrating the joy of living.
So I ask you: Where is your joy?
Things to do today”
- Reflect on how the baby Jesus entering our world brought the gift of joy.
- Listen to song, ‘The Joy of the Lord is your Strength.’