"The joy of the Lord is my strength..." You can listen to the one I'm thinking of here.
But, to me, when you peel back the layers, it goes like this:
1. Joy is found in the Lord, not based on circumstances.
2. There's a direct correlation between your joy and your thankfulness.
3. If you are thankful for what you have, and you express that, you're content with what you have.
4. Contentment with what God has provided will lead to JOY.
And this may seem like I'm beating a dead horse, but since it is CHRISTMAS time, I have to mention that our source of JOY, our ability to be content, knowing that our future is secure, came with Jesus. That was the promise being fulfilled. That was the provision that God made, so that we could be in right standing with him.
Sometimes the holidays seem to steal our joy, more than provide it. Finances, missing loved ones that have passed, missing family, and being too busy to breathe. Make a choice. Say no to some things if you have to, make time to thank God for what he has given you and for what you DO have! Don't worry about what you'll be getting or what you'll be giving, pause and truly appreciate what you already have! You have a direct line to the creator of the universe and he cares for you. He is all knowing, ever present, just, and loving.
Tap into your source of JOY, and then share that!
That's my little girl! She was "born" with a joyful spirit. I can take no credit. To God be the glory! & I can be just a little proud of her.
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