Finding Joy

Today we were blessed with an unusually warm November day. I slept through most of it since I worked nights, but upon waking I took a moment to step outside and admire the last of the leaves on my now mostly bare trees. The puffy clouds were passing overhead. There was a soft breeze and in that moment so much joy filled my heart.

There is no better place to be when life feels stuffy, than outdoors enjoying the scenery God has painted for us. Each day a different portrait fills the sky as far as we can see east from the west. Each day God holds everything in the universe together. “The heavens declare the glory of God. Psalm 19:1“

What comfort I take in that thought. Knowing no matter what we face day today, our Creator holds it all in the palm of His hand. “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. Colossians 1:17″

I have blessings all around me. My wonderful husband. Our three precious children. Food in an abundance. Clothes and a covering over our heads. A Church family rooted deep in the Word. Why then do I often forget these blessings God has provided me with and get caught up in the pain, the sorrow, the failures, and disappointments in life? “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18”

Well the truth is, life is painful. Life is most certainly filled with disappointments as well. However, when I choose to focus on what Gods promise is for me as His child rather than these unfortunate events, my perspective changes. My gloom turns to joy. This joy isn’t found in earthy accomplishments or even in the countless blessings surrounding me, but in Christ alone.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” James 1:2-3

My joy is not found in material possessions either. These things of the earth provide only a temporary high that is soon lost once the new wears off. When I finally met Jesus, I faced reality that my heart and thoughts were wretched. I was finally able to experience the divine saving power of God. Nothing done on my own accord, only because of His Grace through the cross. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9”

No greater joy has ever been experienced than when I first mourned over my sinful state. The fact that a perfect Holy God could have mercy on a sinner like me made my heart truly overflow with joy.

Jesus is where my joy is found. His birth. His ministry. His death. His resurrection. His awaited second coming.

There are days I don’t want to get out of bed. So I look to the cross and for coffee. There are days I don’t want to wash the sink full of dishes, or discipline our children, cook the meals, or quite frankly put on a real pair of pants. So I look to the cross. Jesus Paid it all friends.

Our sins they are many, His mercy is more.

-Abby