Taking Back My Joy

  All of us have a daily routine—a series of chores, errands, and tasks that demand our attention. To add to that pressure, we’re supposed to tack God onto an already over crowed schedule.

I admit it. Sometimes my feet are already running before they hit the floor in the morning. It’s difficult to find time to “be still” before God. I’ve discovered when I don’t take time to seek God’s presence and strength for the day, I become weak, anxious, and deplete of joy. When I allow my sense of awe and wonder drain away, I lose the value of who God is—my helper, provider, counselor, peace, and my source of joy.

Jesus realized our preoccupation with daily duties would cause us to worry about these things instead of live in the care of God. Jesus said, “Do not worry about your life, what your will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?” (Matt 6:25).

When I read these words I wonder, how can I live this life without worrying about the daily grind that takes time and attention to maintain?

I long for peace and joy in my life. It would be awesome not to worry about the basics by trusting in God’s care. But how?

You and I have to turn our attention to God. When we sit and mediate on the wonder of our great God, we experience a sense of love, peace and joy. We become certain that God knows right where we are. He hasn’t forgotten me. He is more than able to care for my needs.

When you and I began to see God in everything, joy fills our hearts. God is everywhere. He is with you and for you right now.

If life’s routines are wearing you down and stealing your peace and joy, take time to seek our God’s love, goodness and majesty that is revealed in creation. Let your joy be renewed in who God is—and who you are to Him. Then, you’ll find His strength, purpose and provision even in your most difficult moment.

Verse to mediate on: “Let not your heart be troubled: you believe in God, believe also in me” (John 14:1).
Truth to hide in your heart:

Turn your eyes on God who is willing to release us of our burdens and our cares—those things that weigh heavy on our hearts— and take them on himself.  That’s why he invites, come to me all you who are weary—from trying to please everybody, from trying to belong and fit in, from seeking security in material things, your job, or position or popularity—come and I will give you rest.

Create A New Habit

I came across an article this week that I really identified with. The author asked if I’ve ever noticed fear does its dirty work by asking questions? It asks you questions about you. It asks you questions about God. It asks you questions about your future. And it makes you doubt. So fight back with your own questions. Here’s some to get your started:

• Who is bigger – God or your problem?
• Who loves you with a never-ending love?
• Who promised you eternal life through his only Son in a place where fear will be no more?
• Who sees you as perfect and righteous due to your faith in Christ?
• Who knocked down the walls of Jericho?
• Who got Joseph out of prison?
• Who parted the Red Sea?
• Who saved Noah from the flood?
• Who really took down Goliath?
• Who died on a cross for your sins?
• Who defeated Satan, sin and death?
• Who is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords?      ~ Mitch Miller

The answer, of course, is Jesus! I like how his questions take the focus off of my problem and refocus my attention on Christ.

His exercise is similar to one of my mine when it comes to battling fear. As soon as fear starts to make me feel week, insecure or steal my joy, I quote scripture. “The battle is in the mind,” the bible says. And I want to be prepared to fight.

I began by choosing verses in the back of my bible on the topic of fear. Those that spoke to me, I wrote down on a piece of paper and kept it in a handy place. Whenever fear began its dirty work in my mind, I’d refocus my attention on God’s promises. Here are a few of my favorite.

“For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you” (Isaiah 41:13)

“Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again” (Exodus 14:13)

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

“So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can Man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6)

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27)

Listen, my friend. The Lord wants you and me to learn a new habit rather than worry. He wants you and I to say,

“I trust you with my cares.”

“Your Presence and love are like a shield of protection for me.”

“Peace is mine when I keep my thoughts on You.”

“You, Lord, are with me and for me. What or whom shall I fear?”

Forming a new habit takes practice and it takes time. But I promise if you change your habit from worry to faith, it will take hold and fear will lose its grip.

You are in my prayers today. If you have a specific request, leave it in a comment and I will be happy to lift your concern to heaven above.

Have a blessed week!!!