I Choose Joy

We live in a fast-paced, self-focused, self-gratifying world. Most everything in this life is done for the purpose of convenience. Feelings are paramount in the search for happiness and meaning in life. If something doesn't feel right, change it or toss it. It is the opposite of what God has intended for us.

This is a season of joy. Or at least it's supposed to be. But joy is misconstrued by many people today. They consider joy to only be a feeling of happiness. Although joy can create a sense of happiness, joy and happiness can be two different things. Happiness is an emotion. Joy is a state of being.

We learned about joy again today in this morning's service. I have been so proud of Dad. He is preaching his heart out...all while that very heart is broken. His faith in God is so inspiring. He loves the Lord with his whole heart, trusts in Him, and believes in His Word through all of the trials. He spoke today about that joy that the world so desperately needs.

Joy is not based on circumstance. It is based on knowledge. In Psalm 16:11, David stated, "You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." People often wonder how someone can have an attitude of joy even in the worst of circumstances. But, as David alluded to, in the presence of Jesus, that fullness of joy can be experienced.

When I ended up with my first extensive blood clot in 1996, I had to head home early from Bible College that year to recuperate. I had been reading a Proverb a day for my devotions at the time, but one day, I decided to read a Psalm. It was the 16th of the month, so I read Psalm 16. From that moment, I adopted that Psalm as a mandate for my life. It has brought me perspective and encouragement so many times throughout the years.

Today was a little tough...as Sundays have been since Mom's passing. Church is just not the same without Mom in the room. Mom and Dad have never missed a church service in their lives. They have just always been there. I'm sure in time we may get used to Mom's absence, but for now, it is really hard to accept.

If I were to give into my feelings at present, I would be far removed from joy. But, regardless of the circumstance, we can have joy in all things. It is unexplainable and unspeakable...it is hard to explain having joy in our lives when things get tough. Although we should be feeling anything but joy and happiness at present, we choose joy in the Lord and in His presence. Only He can give us that deep, pure, and lasting joy.

Regardless of my circumstance or how I feel, with Jesus by my side, I will experience pleasures forevermore. I choose Jesus. And I choose joy.