“Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.”
–Nido Qubein
Which circumstances are currently stealing your joy? Think about it for a minute…
Wouldn’t you agree that the more you focus on the difficulty and uneasiness of the situation, the further from joy you journey?
If you lose your joy, you lose your focus. When you lose your focus it’s easier to be attacked mentally, which could result in your health and wellness being negatively affected.
If you want to carry the presence of God, you can do it with joy, because in His presence is the complete capacity of joy. You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence. (Acts 2:28)
God’s promise to us is everlasting joy and freedom from sorrow and worry. His promise is the abundance of His inheritance poured out over us so that we may be eternally joyful. For the Kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17)
Blessed are those who dwell in joy, because no matter their circumstances, the joy of the Lord is their strength.
You see the enemy comes to steal your joy, then he comes to destroy your mind and body. Finally, he comes to kill. So, start to rejoice in our God, by trusting His Word and simply ask Him for joy. The problem is you don’t ask. Ask and you shall receive my friend, as this is the will of your Father in Heaven. (Matthew 7:7) This joy is yours to ask for, so what are you waiting for?
“But God still loved us with such great love. He is so rich in compassion and mercy. Even when we were dead and doomed in our many sins, he united us into the very life of Christ and saved us by his wonderful grace!”
– Ephesians 2:4-5 TPT
When you laugh, the enemy cries and you will cast him out with all authority. He will go into dry places with his tears and you will remain with the joy of the Lord as your strength.
*Special mention to Surprise Sithole for the inspiration to write this devotional.
