God did not
intend for us to live life on this earth in depression and fear. He delights in
us and wants His righteous children to be glad, and to rejoice before Him with
contentment and joy (Psalm 68:3). There are several roadblocks in this modern world,
which prevent our soul from experiencing the joy that is our heritage in
Christ, and several keys for living a joy-filled life.
There is no
scenario on earth that can entirely eliminate stress. We are going to
experience the complexities of providing for our self and our family. There is
only one solution to this problem, and that is to simplify our belongings and
expenses. The more we have, the more we have to work to pay for it, and the
more we want. Everything we own in this life actually owns us and holds us in
bondage.
Allowing our soul
to grieve our losses is another key to joy (John
16:22). If we hold
grief inside, it discolors the joyful circumstances in our life. By suppressing
sadness, we also suppress joy. Consider your own needs. Otherwise irritability,
depression and even anger or bitterness develop. Commune with your self and
meet your needs, so you feel more satisfied and joyful. Show compassion to
other people too.
Let go of every
toxic, negative emotion plaguing your soul. Change any of your concerns you
can. Let go of the issues, which you cannot change, and rely on God to free you
from their bondage (Romans 8:28). Put all of your hope in the Lord, instead of in
circumstances. Set goals, which are meaningful to you. Surround yourself with
positive people. Praise the Lord all day long, so your soul shouts out with joy
(Psalm 71:23).
Schedule more free
time into your day. Do not overly schedule each moment with chores and
responsibilities. Plan outings or events, which you can look forward to
enjoying. Make some playtime into every day. Take a few moments at the end
of each day to journal and relieve your mind of clutter. Every night, list five
different things that you are grateful for and praise God for them as you fall
asleep.
Prayer:
Father God,
trials work patience into our life, which leads to contentment and fulfillment.
Thank You that we can joyfully traverse trials, because we dwell in Your
presence (James 1:2-8; Psalm 16:11; Isaiah 12:6). We find joy in the shadow of Your wings, because in
your unfailing love we shall never be shaken (Psalm
21:5-7). Remind us to
take time to list the blessings You bestow on us each day and to allow Your joy
in us to demolish Satan and all negative emotions.
Thought for the
Day:
As we trust every
area of our life to Him, our God of Hope fills us with all joy and peace, so
that we abound with hope by the power of His Spirit. – Romans 15:13
