Got Joy?

Our associate pastor started a series of messages tonight about happiness...joy...being positive in the midst of whatever in life that has you down.

I think it struck a nerve with people...in a good way.

So often we find ourselves in situations where it's easy to complain and grumble which ultimately leads to negativity. That negativity changes our moods. We're aggravated, short tempered, "Debbie Downers" and "Negative Neil" is who they are in our house! Our outward actions change (gossip, complacency) and our heart fills with guilt and sin.

Nothing positive can come from the negative attitude that we take on. I'm not saying that positive things can't be part of the outcome of a negative situation. I am a firm believer that the Lord can and does use the negative situations in our lives to bring Him glory and praise.

But sometimes the challenge is finding the joy in your life despite the circumstances around you. We're all going through things in our life whether we like it or not. That's called life and I'm pretty sure the board game is easier to play than the real deal...even if you lose the game!

A great quote from tonight:

"A lot of people say "under my circumstances" and that its their problem. (as if no one has ever gone through it!) They are under something that God has already gone over." (see Romans 8 for more!)

Nothing surprises God. But when you're faced with the situation, how will you react?

Honestly, I think sometimes it's easier to be negative about things than positive. Yes, some days the pit you're in feels like quicksand...you're sinking fast with no rope in sight. Some days you want to huddle up in the corner and cry for a few hours til your eyes are puffy and red and it's hard to breathe. We all go through those days of wanting to be left alone to have our pity party.

But there IS hope. There IS joy around us. Some days you may have to squint a little harder to see it, but it's there.

Tonight's challenge: find the joy in your life. Sounds easy right? Well, we've been asked to write it down! For every negative, look for the positive, write it down and acknowledge the One who is the giver of all we have on this earth...in this life we live.

Wanna join me in finding joy?

This week put a piece of paper on the fridge and start writing...the blessings, the answered prayers, the positive things, the little things that make our numbered days on earth a little better and you'll see...joy is closer than you think.