Some days, sadness doesn't just visit—it moves in and makes itself at home, cozying up right beside you. Frankly, it feels uncomfortably close. Perhaps it's the result of consecutive disappointments, rejections, or unforeseen losses. Maybe it's the weight of paralyzing anxiety or simmering anger bubbling just beneath the surface. In moments like these, joy feels out of reach, a distant memory of happier times.
Psalm 126:5 states, “Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.” This is a promise from God. While it might seem impossible right now, you can be assured that you will smile and laugh again.
Nehemiah 9:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is my strength”. The enemy wants to steal your joy to weaken you. While happiness may be based on circumstances, joy exists despite your situations. Things may not be perfect AND YOU CAN STILL DECIDE TO CHOOSE JOY.
Here's the thing: you're capable of experiencing a multitude of seemingly contradictory emotions. You can feel sadness and disappointment while also harboring hope and contentment. The Lord encourages you to choose joy over being consumed by troubles. I'm not trying to dismiss or diminish your feelings—because they are valid. However, there comes a point when we must acknowledge our emotions, regain control, and shift our focus.
We have authority over our attitudes, thoughts, and actions. Yet, we cannot dictate how others respond or what they feel. When we release control over things beyond our influence, we unburden ourselves from unnecessary weight.
So, what burdens are you carrying today? Identify what you genuinely have control over (hint: it's only yourself). Release the rest and surrender it to God.
How does God want us to cultivate joy in our lives?
Psalm 1:1-3 says, “Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.”
John 15:9-11 says, “I love each of you with the same love that the Father loves me. You must continually let my love nourish your hearts. If you keep my commands, you will live in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands, for I continually live nourished and empowered by his love. My purpose for telling you these things is so that the joy that I experience will fill your hearts with overflowing gladness!”
Psalm 34:5 says, “Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces.”
Psalm 19:8, “The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.”
When we turn to Him and align ourselves with His will, we open the door to abundant joy flooding our hearts, to the point where it radiates from us. It may not always be the answer we expect or desire, but there's something transformative about walking in God's will—it nourishes, empowers, and fills us with His love. His love is beyond words, overwhelmingly good.
If you've been faithfully following God's will, I pray that the Holy Spirit breaks through any layers of sadness, allowing you to experience the fullness of His joy.
Dear God, we surrender our emotions to You. Replace our depression, anger, disappointment, and heartache with Your loving kindness and unspeakable joy. May we encounter You in a special way this week. Thank You for Your boundless joy and mercy. Amen.
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