Choosing Joy

Devotional Reading: “Yes, joyful are those who live like this! Joyful indeed are those whose God is the Lord” Psalm 144:15 NLT.

Choosing to live with joy is a continuous choice. We may have a deep connection to a person, a position, or a passion. However, if the connection fades or causes us to fall into sin, we may enter a crisis of maintaining our faith, peace, and our joy.

Thankfully, in Christ, we’ve been given open and eternal access to God. He will never leave us nor forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5) As Creator of the universe and Redeemer of our souls, He alone is worthy of our worship. (Psalm 86:8-‬13) Such loyalty and love for the Almighty God come with a promise.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Living with joy is possible for “those whose God is the Lord.” Otherwise, we may have moments of tremendous delight without a continuous link to having joy. Yet, in seasons of difficulty, choosing joy may also involve seeking help from God’s ambassadors.

Our local church, trusted family and friends, or a licensed and skilled Christian counselor are often people God uses to navigate us through tough seasons. However, His life-giving Word is the ultimate compass. It tells us to put God first in all things. (Matthew 6:33) Then as we seek Him or interact with others, we can experience the most lasting and purest kind of joy.

Prayer and Confession
Dear God, forgive me for putting anything or anyone before You. Thank You for every good and perfect gift You’ve given me. Salvation through Your Son Jesus is the greatest gift of all. May I put You first in all things and experience pure and lasting joy. In Jesus’ name, amen

Further Reading: Isaiah 12:1-3
Reading The Prophets: Ezekiel 21-25