Finding and Choosing JOY

Joy is a choice. It is not always easy. Sometimes you have to work hard to find joy. But it is always good. It brings hope and peace when we keep our eyes fixed on Christ instead of our circumstances. He WANTS us to have His JOY, a song of HOPE in our hearts.

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 forevermore.” (ESV, emphasis mine)

Psalm 16:9 “Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope.” (NKJV, emphasis mine)

John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NIV, emphasis mine)

A few practical ways to find joy if you’re struggling:

– Focus on your blessings – even if it’s something small! It changes your perspective. (Blessed is a synonym for happy).

– Listen to praise & worship music

– Spend time in God’s Word

– Do something for someone else…it shifts your focus off your circumstances

Philippians 4:11-13 “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”