Finding Joy in your Problems
Count it all joy when you fall into various trials.
In the first chapter of James, James is talking to us about our attitudes. More specifically, having a proper attitude when things don’t go right. I had a day, the other day, where things just didn’t seem to go right at all. I wish that I had joy about my circumstances, but at the time, I was just full of frustration. James tells us that we are to count it ALL joy! That includes our bad days full of frustration, disappointment and troubles…
(James 1:2-4) “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have it’s perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
You probably know someone who is always happy. I have a friend who is always smiling; ALWAYS. It doesn’t matter what is going on in her life, she finds joy and happiness in every situation. I love being around her because her joy and happiness is contagious and uplifting. Too many people I rub shoulders with are down and discouraging. Why wallow in the mud with our sorrow when we can look up and praise God for all of His goodness? This is what my friend does, despite her hard times (and she has had plenty of them), she chooses God over gloom.
How can we find joy in our problems?
Joy isn’t anything that we can create on our own. Joy comes simply from knowing Who God is and believing in the Power that He gives us.
(2 Corinthians 12:9) “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”
Often times, it is in my trials and problems that I feel most vulnerable and I feel the weakest. But like my friend, when I look to God and not focus on my situation, His strength is what carries me thru. His Grace is all that I need, no matter what, it is always enough. This is the joy that I need in my life.
We all have had some difficult days in the past and I assure you we will have some more in the near future. However, circumstances do not dictate our attitudes in life, but where we place our focus does. Today, I want to choose joy, and by doing so, I am choosing God.
If you want to have more joy, change your attitude and choose God over gloom.
BLESSINGS, LAURIE
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We choose.
Such a great message, Laurie. Yes, we always should look up, no matter what our circumstances. “Choose God over gloom” – I will have to remember that today and always.
I have a brother who is always happy even in difficult times. I’m still growing in that area. Thank you for t 🙂 e reminder to choose joy.