More joy! 

‘Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about.’ Philippians 4:8 TLB 

When Mother Teresa was asked what it took to work in the streets of Calcutta, she replied, ‘Hard work, and a joyful attitude!’ She’s right! And the second is harder to find than the first. To be happy, you’ve got to learn how to rise above the ‘if onlys'. If only I’d more money; if only I’d more talent; if only I was better looking. Money never made anybody more generous, talent never made anybody more grateful and looks never made anybody more fulfilled. Settle it once and for all; things don’t bring joy! The happiest people are not the richest, the most beautiful or the most talented. Instead of depending on externals for excitement, they enjoy the simple things in life. They don’t waste time thinking that other pastures are greener. They don’t yearn for yesterday or tomorrow. They savour the moment, glad to be alive, enjoying their work, their family and the blessings God has already given them. Their eyes always look upwards and outwards. They’re aware and compassionate. They’re adaptable. They bend with the wind, adjust to change, enjoy the contests of life and try to walk in God’s purpose for them as individuals. Paul was one of those people. That’s why he could write letters filled with joy from the most miserable prisons in Europe, while waiting to be executed. How come? Because he realised that unlike your news updates, which are delivered to you every morning, joy is a garment you have to put on! (See Isaiah 61:3.) Got yours on today? 

Prayer Point:

Lord, let my outlook be filled with joy, so that I might see life through the lens of the beauty of Your creation. Help me stop each day just for a moment to take in the great things about each day. Let my enthusiasm for life overpower the difficulties I sometimes face, so I can lift up Your name in any situation and have the drive and determination to reach the next great day.