joy.
Do you ever look back and realize how much you didn’t appreciate something in life? Joy in life really is in the small things. So often I am worried about what I am getting out of this time or concentrated on everything that I need to do, rather than finding joy in situations. I’m pretty sure that’s not how God wants us to live. Yes, He wants us to be faithful and to take care of what He has entrusted to us, but He wants us to enjoy it. Do what you need to do, but find joy in life. If we know Jesus then we have no excuse for not finding joy in anything we are called to. At my Bible study on Wednesday night we were looking at Philippians. Paul says in Philippians 1:21-24,
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.”
These verses are so exciting. If we live then we get to be a part of bringing people to Jesus, but if we die we get to go be with Him. If we find joy in spending time with Jesus then we cannot lose in this life. If it is a no lose situation, why are we so worried about ourselves? God takes care of us. (Matthew 7:11, Matthew 6:26-30) What do we have to worry about? We are free to serve others and find joy in any situation.
It seems so clear and simple right now. It will be harder tomorrow or next week when I have a lot to do. Right now I sit enjoying my Savior who so richly provides for me. I hope to never take His gifts for granted. I’m excited about a life that involves joy; no matter the circumstances.
