You may not know that children's song...but several weeks ago we discussed "Joy."
Happiness is a temporary emotion...but being full of Joy is a way of life.
Things that keep us from Joy...aka "Joy Busters":
1. Unresolved Guilt...struggling to let go of a painful event in the past that you feel was your fault.
2. Wounded Ego...we get hurt by others and it stings.
3. Unpleasant Circumstances...we have unrealistic expectations as to what life is going to be like, so when we realize that not everything works out perfect we lose our joy.
Things that bring us Joy...aka "Joy Builders":
1. Developing & maintaining a relationship with Jesus Christ...he's our rock.
2. Reattach to the vine...read John 15:4-6.
-Reattach by:
-Read the Bible...how else are you going to learn?
-Attend church...be part of a family that can help each other grow.
-Serve Others...always a valuable experience (think mission trip, elderly, homeless)
3. Focus on the big picture...don't worry to much about today. God will tke care of you...read Matthew 6:26-28.
4. Picture God full of joy...realize it says he takes joy in us in Zephaniah 3:17.
5. Celebrate God's attributes (characteristics) in Worship...all powerful, savior, creator, etc.
6. Evangelize...telling others about Jesus and seeing their joy can help remind you of the fact that sometimes you forget that Jesus died for our sins!
7. Give your problems over to God...let him carry some of your burdens. It always helps having someone else carry the load.
The first person to tell me which "Joy Builder" helps them the most gets a Starbucks gift card or one free Wednesday night meal. Call me or Email me...texting doesn't count this time.
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