“Always be joyful.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16) Does that seem like an impossible direction to follow? Do you know anyone who is always joyful? Do you share a home with that person? It’s easy for most of us to put on a happy face for the outside world only to become a grumbler or complainer when we are safe behind our own walls.
If you are truly joy-filled there is no room left for a bad attitude or complaining spirit. If you do know a person who is full of joy, it’s safe to say they practice the instructions to “pray regularly”, and “in everything give thanks.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18) Most of us pray sometimes and show some thankfulness to our Redeemer but we fall down in the “always” and “everything” departments. However, “this is what God wants for you who are united with the Messiah Yeshua [Jesus].” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
How is it possible in today’s broken world to have a joy-filled heart that is not shaken by the next bad news report? Remember that God has a perfect plan, He is in control, and His timing is perfect. “Don‘t quench the Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:19) Don’t let the troubles of your life snuff out your light when you are in your comfort zone. Always be filling your heart with God-inspired messages. When you focus on hearing from God, through His written Word, His messengers, His voice, signs, and wonders–He will keep you in perfect peace. You will be able to face this broken world and your messy life with pure joy that surpasses your circumstances.
There is always something to be thankful for–look for and dwell on the good. If you just can’t see it, ask the Spirit to open your eyes. God gave you another chance today–choose joy!
People are amazed that I have a happy heart, not a hard brittle one made of Stone. I always tell them, the joy of the Lord is my strength. After losing a 17 year old son to suicide and having to cut him down, that was hard. Four years later my husband of 28 years died the same week as our anniversary.
How am I happy and joyful? The Holy Spirit of our Loving Lord! Without Him, I’d be in the cemetery plot right next to our son!
That’s exactly what I mean. It is possible but not in our own.
Bless your heart! The strength of the lord keeps me going everyday! Thank you so much for sharing. God bless you.
This really hit home with me. The joy overcoming your circumstance is empowering me through today. Thank you
I choose Joy!!!
I choose Joy! Ssometimes I cry out to Jesus for healing.
Great write-up and it is the basis for having “peace that passeth all understanding.” We serve a mighty Elohim who is faithful and always provides what we need when we need it — don’t forget to say thank you!
AMEN!