So many things out there threatening to steal our joy. I walk a line between good and bad, most days.
I used to think joy was that fickle — coming and going like the wave lapping up against the shore.
But I know better now.
"She knew that when her affections were set on things above then nothing could steal her joy."
These words sit on the shelf above my computer. My eyes whirl by it as I rush to the next thing. But so often the word "joy" catches me and I wonder to myself if I'm feeling joy today.
Joy isn't the same as happy. I've bounced this conflict around in mind over the years because happy and sad, good and bad, hardship and status quo have never existed in the same moment for me.
But joy. Well, joy cannot be stolen. It exists simply because of Him. It is not a fleeting feeling that arrives in circumstance.
Joy is like believing. Joy is like faith. We choose to rest in it.
Today is wild adventure. It's mourning a loss. It's missing out and licking wounds. It's friendship and comfort and creativity. It's hello and good-bye.
Joy is my constant today. I only need to know where to look for it.
Linking today with Lisa-Jo…
"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
ReplyDeleteHis joy is constant and full. I'm so thankful that He called me into His presence and nothing can stand in the way of that.
I needed this reminder Christy... "But joy. Well, joy cannot be stolen. It exists simply because of Him." The JOY I have in Him cannot be taken from me. On those rougher days I need to remember I only need to look to Him. Happy Friday to you.
ReplyDelete"...joy cannot be stolen."
ReplyDeleteAmen, sweet friend! So much Amen!
Amazing that when NOTHING else is constant, our JOY can be. Thanks for sharing your joy and your beautiful words!
ReplyDeleteThis is a really good reminder about joy. You are right on about so many things seeking to steal our joy. We have to work for joy; remind ourselves our joy found in Christ can never be stolen. I really liked when you spoke about joy being found in all parts of life. Joy is always available but we have to set our minds. God is Gracious.
ReplyDeleteI like the distinction you make between happiness and joy. I think of joy as fuller, deeper and more complex than happiness. I pray that you are resting in joy today!
ReplyDeleteGreat job. I liked that you had a sign about joy nearby and that it could encourage you and inspire you to write. Our joy is truly in the Lord and what is held by Him is unshakeable.
ReplyDelete