JOY

Definition of Joy
Joy- a state of happiness based on unchanging divine promises-. Joy is unchanging regardless of circumstances.

1. What brings you joy?
Is is your spouse? Your car? Your iPhone?...this is personal :), Your job? Your house? Your kids?

If we are honest, our mood is always affected by our circumstances.

I am not sure about you, but my joy button is turned off and on during traffic, break-ups,family problems,and so on. However, true joy has nothing to do with circumstances but everything to do with God.

2. Joy is God centered
It is God-centered because it’s living out a life knowing that God is the same today, yesterday and tomorrow. His word never fails and He is always good on his promises, regardless of what circumstances are happening around us at any given moment.

One of my absolute favorite verses is Phil 4:16-17
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything with prayer, petition, and thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the PEACE of God, WHICH SURPASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING, will GUARD your HEARTS and MINDS in CHRIST JESUS.

3. Joy does not mean happiness.
Happiness is something you get temporarily. For me, the iPhone brings me happiness! It sounds funny, but sooner or later, I am not going to be happy with the iPhone 4 and I will want the newest one. THAT IS NOT JOY. Nothing can truly bring you joy except Christ, knowing that He loves You no matter what. Knowing that He has a plan for your life no matter what. Knowing there is a reason for everything. Knowing that God knows best.

Do not let circumstances dictate your life. Let God's peace, joy, and love dictate your life. Remember, life is short here. And there will be nothing better than spending an eternity in Heaven with Jesus. This life is short. Joy comes from God, not stuff.

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