Live Your Joy StorySample

The Power of Rejoicing

Depending on the version of the Bible you are reading, the terms “joy, joyful, or rejoice” occur over 350 times. The thread of sacred delight woven through Scripture is waiting to weave its gift into our lives. It happens in simple, and even surprising, ways.

We can choose to count our blessings or count our disappointments. But James 1:2 NLT tells us “to count it all joy.” I’m still working on that. Maybe you are too. Learning to count our blessings is our joy story in the making.

However, rejoicing doesn’t require us to pretend to be happy when we’re hurting. Instead, it allows us to celebrate God’s goodness when life does not feel good. The Apostle Paul knew this well. He told the church at Philippi, “Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord. I never get tired of telling you these things, and I do it to safeguard your faith" (Philippians 3:1 NLT).

As life happens, it's easy to succumb to my feelings. But I also need to be aware of how to safeguard my faith. It’s an ongoing process of learning how to not “worry about anything; instead, pray about everything” (Philippians 4:4-6). Yet, being joyful in the Lord becomes deeply personal as we realize He rejoices over us too. (Zephaniah 3:17)

Your Joy Story

What are you thankful for today? At this moment, let gratitude cause you to rejoice in who God is and in what He does.

Prayer

Dear God, As I rejoice in Your salvation, Your strength grows in me. Whatever happens in my life's story, help me to safeguard my faith. Thank You for the way Your joy comes, fills, and overflows in my life! In Jesus’ name, amen.