joy of the Lord

How much joy do you feel in life?

I know some people who always seem to have joy, even in difficult circumstances. I know others who almost never seem to experience joy, even in good circumstances.

Why is that?

Much has to do with what we choose to look at. Are we looking at Jesus and thinking of His promises or are we looking at the problems of life. If we only look at the problems, they can dominate us and squelch our joy. If we look to Jesus and realize He is greater than the problems, we have hope and can experience joy and peace even in the worst situation.

In a way, we aren’t really choosing joy. When we say it like that it can sound disingenuous. After all, why would I be joyful when everything stinks? What we are really choosing is to focus on Jesus and that brings joy.

What’s the difference?

When I just try to feel joy all the time, it doesn’t seem real or based in reality. When I focus on Jesus, it changes my perception of reality. I realize that the true reality of the situation isn’t a hopeless problem. The reality is a world that Jesus has overcome. The reality is that Jesus is with me. The reality is that I have great hope because I know Jesus will work through this.

So, I have joy not in spite of reality but because of it. I’ve looked passed the illusion of the world to see Jesus.

What will you focus on, today? How can you focus more on Jesus?

Dear Jesus,

There are many problems in the world and in my life, specifically. As overwhelming as those problems can seem, I know that You are with me and will carry me through them. Help me to trust You. Help me to see You in the storms of my life. By the power of Your Spirit, give me peace and joy as I find my hope in You.

Amen.