I was clearing brush recently, and an irritant got lodged inside my right boot. I continued with my work, not wanting to waste time looking and dealing with the thorn, debris, or whatever was distracting me from my task. Finally, I couldn’t take it anymore. I removed my boot and discovered some prickly leaves from a plant that should not exist on planet Earth. Having freed myself from the discomfort, I strapped on my boot and returned to work.
Life is filled with irritants—unforeseen financial expenditures, broken relationships, workplace drama, familial and marital challenges, and more. Is it possible to have JOY during these times? Or, maybe a more challenging question is, “Do others believe you are a person of joy?” How about your spouse, children, and grandchildren?
JOY killers exist. Unsatisfied expectations lead to discontentment. Unresolved conflict can paralyze us. Unconfessed sin troubles the soul.
So, as you journey, here are some essentials for JOY to consider (see Philippians 1:12-26).
Live with an eternal perspective (verse 12). Live with the right priorities (verse 18). Allow the Holy Spirit to be your power (verse 19). Live with an eternal purpose (verses 21).
A final thought: Here’s how to spell JOY. Love Jesus first, serve Others, and You will find joy in life’s journey.