I woke up with a song... the words I kept repeating were: "You bring me joy, down deep in my soul..." It's all about finding and celebrating joy in the simple things and the big things. Last night and today I was blessed to be with fellow sisters in the Lord--two of which I only met yesterday for the first time in my life... if you know me... I know no stranger! So this was a delight. There was so much laughter... as if we've known each other for years.
This morning when I woke up with the song... I could only celebrate and give thanks for the joy that I had. All because Jesus reminded me what JOY looks like. Joy is not only found when you achieve something, or someone does something for you, or gives you a gift. You find joy when you are a blessing to another person in any shape or form. You find joy when you celebrate other people's successes. You find joy when you seek the best out of other people and help take them to the next level. You see, God finds joy when He does so much for you, not because you deserve it, but because He loves you. I believe that for every of life, God finds joy when He breathes into you and gives you His life to live on earth. You are truly blessed to be a blessing and what great joy you find when you do that! Remember... even through trials and tribulations, you can still find joy in the midst of all of that if you look hard enough and let Jesus be your joy!
Some verses to reflect on and encourage you to find joy:
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13)
"Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people." (Philemon 7)
"A person finds joy in giving an apt reply—and how good is a timely word!" (Proverbs 15:23)
So, today... and everyday... as you go forth, remember to speak timely words that bring joy! Find joy in the simple and big things... nothing is too small or insignificant. Don't let your instinct be to always complain about anything... even the weather (huh!) Seek and you will find joy. Joy is all around you--just waiting to be found, only to explode with ripple effects and change your day, maybe even your life!
PS: Today's blog is a tad late... my apologies... while I wrote the message in the morning when I woke up... I wasn't able to submit it online. Nonetheless, I believe this will be a blessing to you no matter what time of the day you read it... and tomorrow morning will have it's own message!
