Find Joy

Joy is a feeling that we all long for in our lives. It's not just about being happy or having a positive outlook on life, but it's about finding contentment and satisfaction in everything we do. Joy is a gift that comes from within, and it's not dependent on external circumstances. In this blog, we will explore some key points on finding joy in our lives, including biblical examples of characters who found joy in difficult circumstances.

Firstly, joy is a choice that we make. It's not something that just happens to us. We have to choose to look for joy in our daily lives and keep choosing it every day. As Henri Nouwen said, "Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day." We can choose to focus on the positive aspects of our lives, be grateful for what we have, and find joy in the little things.

Secondly, finding joy requires us to cultivate a grateful heart. We need to learn to appreciate what we have and be content with it. Gratitude can transform our ordinary days into thanksgiving and turn routine jobs into joy. As William Arthur Ward said, "Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgiving, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings."

Thirdly, joy is not just about our own happiness but about spreading joy to others. When we spread joy to others, we not only bring happiness to them but also to ourselves. As Mother Teresa said, "Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls." We can spread joy by doing acts of kindness, giving back, and serving others.

Fourthly, finding joy requires us to focus on our spiritual growth. The joy of the Lord is our strength, and our faith can bring us joy. As Nehemiah 8:10 says, "The joy of the Lord is your strength." We can find joy in our spiritual growth by reading the Bible, praying, and participating in fellowship with other believers.

Biblical Examples:
One biblical example of finding joy in difficulty is found in the book of Philippians. The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church in Philippi while he was in prison. Despite his difficult circumstances, Paul was able to find joy and encouragement in the fact that the gospel was still being preached, even as he faced persecution. He wrote, "I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel" (Philippians 1:12).

Another example is found in the story of Job. Job experienced incredible loss and suffering, yet he was able to find joy and peace in God. After losing everything he had, Job declared, "The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord" (Job 1:21). Despite his circumstances, Job remained faithful to God and found joy in his relationship with Him.

Lastly, in the book of James, the author encourages believers to "count it all joy when you meet trials of various kinds" (James 1:2). James understood that trials and difficulties are inevitable in life, but he also knew that they could produce growth and maturity in believers. By focusing on the eternal perspective, we can find joy even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

I know firsthand how difficult it can be to find joy after experiencing trauma. Growing up in poverty and experiencing sexual abuse left me feeling broken and hopeless. And when my marriage was shattered by infidelity, I felt like I had lost everything. But I refused to let those experiences define me or control my life. I turned to the Bible, worship, and prayer, seeking intimacy with God and finding strength and hope in His Word. And I also sought out fellowship with other women of faith. I was blessed to have also found a community of extraordinary women through Masterpiece Women, where we encourage each other to grow in our faith and support each other through life's challenges. It's through these experiences that I have found true joy and hope, and I want to encourage all women to seek out a community of like-minded believers who can lift them up and help them find joy in the midst of life's difficulties.

In conclusion, finding joy in difficult circumstances is possible. By choosing joy, cultivating a grateful heart, spreading joy to others, and focusing on our spiritual growth, we can find joy even in the most challenging situations. The examples of Paul, Job, and James show us that joy is not dependent on external circumstances but rather on our relationship with God. May we always choose joy. Love you all so much! Let me know how I can pray for you.