New Morning MerciesSample

Protect Your Mornings for Joy

A recent study by Shawn Achor and Arianna Huffington found that just 3 minutes of negative news in the morning makes you 27% more likely to report having a bad day 6-8 hours later.

Our thoughts matter. They inform our emotions, our actions, our prayers, and more. But so often we let things in that taint our thoughts. I’ve seen many families turn on the news as soon as they wake up, and let their thoughts be shaped by headlines rather than God. 

It’s no wonder that we struggle with positivity in the morning. We’re not giving ourselves the opportunity for our minds to be refreshed with hope and joy in God. 

We must protect our mornings for joy.

This means we shut off the news when we wake up. We avoid checking on social media to see the latest internet debate. We don’t check email until we check our hearts.

When we create strong boundaries around our mornings, it’s easier to have a renewed perspective in God. It’s easier to be more hopeful, joyful, and open to what life brings you.

Mornings are important. They are a fresh start, an opportunity to wipe the slate clean, reconnect with the Lord, and get the energy and hope we need for another day. 

It might take a little effort, but consider creating more space in your morning. Maybe try waking up a few minutes earlier each day. And count your morning a success if you have a renewed perspective. That’s it. 

A practice like this can be transformational for the trials and complexities of today. May your mornings refresh you to be a light in today’s world. 

Was this Plan helpful? If so, learn more about practical, Biblical joy at https://nealsamudre.com/mornings/.