Joy

Joy

With so much going on in our lives, it can be hard to be joyful. With tests, deadlines, appointments, disappointments, and heartbreaks, it is difficult to remember joy. But, during all of that, think of all the good things that have happened. You woke up, you had food to eat, you have a God that loves you. If you think about all the good things that happen on even it worst of days, then you will begin to question how we could ever forget to have joy.

True joy comes from God. Everyday when we wake up, we find joy in our Lord. He gives us the joy, the strength, to face the day. Joy is so much more than basic happiness. It is a deep and lasting sense that will not fade even during the hard times. You can be sad, but still rejoice. You can be exhausted, but still rejoice. In every season of your life you can rejoice in the Lord.

There are many things you can do to be more joyful in your everyday life. My favorite way is to keep a “joy journal”. In it, I write all the things I am thankful for, all the things that make me happy. I do whatever I want in it, with no expectations of how each page will come out. You could paint in it, tape in pictures, draw, make lists, use stickers and stamps, paste in movie tickets, or write yourself encouraging notes. Only include things that bring joy rushing into you, so that when you open it you can feel all the more encouraged.

True joy comes from God, but that joy can come in many forms. Other things you can do to cultivate joy in your life are surround yourself with joyful people, be in constant communication with God, listen to good music, or go somewhere that brings you joy, like a park or coffee shop.

Remember that you can be joyful on even the worst of days. Being joyous will change your outlook on life for the better. Ask God to work in your heart and mind to give you a more joyful outlook on life.

Much Love, Lydia