"In your presence is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forever." Psalm 16:11
I know of no greater need today than the need for joy. Unexplainable, contagious joy. Outrageous joy! When that kind of joy comes aboard our ship of life, it brings things with it - like enthusiasm for life, determination to hang in there, and a strong desire to be of encouragement to others. Such qualities make our voyage bearable when we hit the open seas and encounter high waves of hardship that tend to demoralize and paralyze. There is nothing better than a joyful attitude when we face the challenges life throws at us.
- Wisdom For The Way
It is not easy to be joyful amid our own difficult circumstances, let alone be an encouragement to others. Thankfully, we have the ability to draw from the Lord's strength when we are weak, but it means stepping out beyond ourselves and realizing how our lives at this moment are impacting the world and influencing others for Jesus Christ! Beware of the many thieves of joy. Personal gain, comparison, discontentment...
In order to secure a joyful spirit we must remain saturated in the scripture.
James 1:2 - "Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials."
John 15:11 - "These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full."
Philippians 4:11 - "Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am in."
1 Timothy 6:6 - "Godliness with contentment is great gain."
Colossians 1:11 - "Strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously.
Psalm 23:1 - "The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not be in want."
Philippians 2:2 - "then make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose."
Philippians 4:19 - "And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Find Joy in Him, Beloved!
