Focus on the following scripture throughout the day. It’s God’s Word and it’s what He desires us to believe. Believe it is true for you because God’s Word is Truth. Speak this Word to yourself throughout the day. Personalize it by putting your name in it!
“I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope.” ~ Psalm 16:8,9 [NKJV]
Happiness is an emotion and is based on our external circumstances. It fluctuates and is temporary. On the other hand, joy is more an attitude of the heart. Joy is a much stronger factor in our lives than happiness ever could be.
Joy is based on receiving God’s love (Galatians 5:22). It is a by-product of His Spirit dwelling in us and producing growth in our spirit. Joy is stable because it is based on the unchanging love Jesus has for us. Our relationship with Him allows us to enjoy His presence at any time, even in the midst of the worst hurt. In His presence, there is fulness (abundance) of joy! So when there are circumstances in our lives that challenge us to our core, and prevent us from finding anything to be happy about, we can still have joy because we find solace in knowing that we are loved by the One who is Love!
Being joyful is a choice. That’s because even in the midst of severe tests and trials, joy can still exist in our hearts and be exhibited in our actions. During hard times, we can choose to be miserable or we can choose to find pleasure in our relationship with Jesus, knowing that He brings life, peace, strength, comfort and much more. The joy that is resident in Him is full, complete, and perfect. That joy is a place and means of safety, protection and refuge for us in good and bad times alike. (Strong’s Concordance)
It’s no wonder that Paul reiterated to the Philippians to rejoice and again, to rejoice.
Joy…it’s a good thing!
Graphic source: http://www.marilynmoll.com/2010/01/the-joy-of-the-lord-is-my-strength/