So, I've taken time to do little things that I enjoy, like utilizing my rewards points to buy some things that I really like. I've also been able to find some joy by taking care of the weeds growing in the sidewalk that have been bothering me for awhile. Even just starting to use the "Be Still" cup that I received as a gift brings me joy - it reminds me of the caring and love of my small group leaders who gave it to me; but, also reminds me to take time to enjoy being still before God. Even something as simple as savoring the food that I eat adds joy to my day. I think the reason these things can bring joy, is that I'm stopping to take the time to notice the many ways that God has blessed me and given to me. Also, instead of rushing around focusing on taking care of only the "big things" in life; taking care of the "small things" brings peace, by relieving me of the things that are always in the back of my mind or "hanging overhead".
But, most importantly, consciously seeking joy is essentially looking for God's Hand in my life; and I think this also fosters an attitude of gratitude. I've started to just whisper a "Thank you Lord" for various little things throughout the day that I see God doing.
One thing that brought joy today, was realizing that I had grown and learned through a previous experience. Last month, when I was at the checkout in the grocery store, one of my items (that I bought multiple bags of, because it was on sale) was not marked down in the scanner. But, I decided not to say anything since I didn't want to hold up the line correcting the error for just $3; and also because I had forgotten what the sale price was supposed to be. However, when I left the store, I felt bad, because that wasn't the best stewardship, to just let money go when there was a mistake that could be corrected by just me speaking up and making some effort to get the corrected. But, by that time, it was too late to do anything about it. Yesterday, I received a bill for my deposit box, which used to be included with my account. This just started happening. Last year, they just waived it; but, I didn't want to have to go in every year and ask them to waive it. And, I didn't want to just pay it without at least trying to see what can be done (remembering how badly I felt when I just didn't do anything). So, I went to the bank today, and the outcome was the best result for the situation. I discovered that they had made an error in the listed size of the box; and that the one I have truly should be included with my account at no cost. So, by a little persistence and some prayer, I was saved from having to pay the extra $100 a year; and not to have to request a waiver each year either. It made me think that God had me go through and learn from the $3 error in order to be able to deal with the $100 error.
I've also really been enjoying devotions through the Life Principles Daily Bible. I also find joy in the moments when I am able to stop and "be still" and have some time with the Lord.
3-Feb: Yesterday, my Pastor said I was his favorite female teacher..... what an honor and encouragement it was to hear that from a person I so respect. He also started a series in Jonah, and I know it was no coincidence that we are both doing series in the minor prophets at the same time. Already, I was able to reference some of what he taught when I was going through my class lesson. It is a joy to feel like God is using me. It is so interesting that this time of intentionally seeking the joy in living has resulted in me recognizing that this may be one of the most "joyful" periods of my life. I did enjoy the time I was in MITI, since it was such a good working environment and it fostered good relationships between co-workers; and I also enjoyed the initial years of business travel when I was able to go to different parts of the world. But, at this time of my life, I have truly meaningful areas of service for God, I am well established and know who I am & whose I am, and I have the independence and freedom to pursue whatever God leads me. I know the LORD and have been continually growing closer in my relationship with Him. I am blessed.
8-Feb: While watching Davis & White skating during the Team competition in the Olympics, I heard the announcer say that they had such "joie de vivre" in their skating; and it caught my attention because it translates directly to "joy of living". It is worth pondering to see how I could incorporate something like that into my life. As I thought about it, I could see a difference in the way Virtue & Moir skated in contrast. While both dance pairs skated beautifully, Virtue & Moir did seem to "think" more as they danced what they had learned and practiced; while Davis & White danced "all out" with "controlled" abandon.
Sure, I can find joy in the little things in life; like today, being able to take care of things like car maintenance; but, maybe I should seek to find areas where I can do what I totally love without unnecessary inhibitions.
9-Feb: I found joy today in interactions with others at church. People in my class gave positive feedback on this study in Zechariah; so, encouraging considering that this is a rarely studied minor prophet in the Old Testament. And there was such great participation in class. Also, there was some fun interaction with the saxophone and keyboard players in the band. It's nice to know that we are comfortable enough to joke with eachother. And there is one other person who remembered my name from last week, who I have only met in passing in the hallway after he paid me a compliment last week. I also feel good that I've been making progress in losing weight.
16-Feb: Perspective really makes a difference. I've found that even though life continues to throw me curves, yet, I can still face it with joy. I found my verse for the year: "You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever." (Psalm 16:11) This verse expresses the truth that to truly find JOY, we are to be continually in God's presence, to be aware of His presence in our lives, seeing His Hand.
Today, church was a blessing. Several people commented about the great lesson in Zechariah and what they learned. One person even pointed out how much the class loves me (how encouraging). Also, before service, a few of us were just on the platform with some of the musicians playing some jazzy music for fun. Then, the saxophonist came over to "danced" with me. It was sweet, although, because he caught me off guard, my socially inept self didn't know how to respond well, unfortunately. This motivates me to learn to be a better communicator.
Then, I started moving things out of the master bedroom closet, in preparation for remodeling. I decided to move the corner desk out and set up an "office". It's neat how something "small" like this actually contributed to my joy today as well.
23-Feb: I have been able to set up a "space" that promotes an atmosphere of prayer and meditation, which brings me joy. And, I've been able to modernize my family room with just some small changes.
28-Apr: It's interesting, but I kind of feel like I've been covered with this "cloud" of JOY. There are still many challenges in my life and I'm still extremely busy; yet, I've been able to face them joyfully. I sense God's presence and I see Him at work. I feel like I've gained some perspective in the area of friendships that drain resources or are not as constructive. I'm continuing to make progress in my weight loss, now approaching my goal. I've also made so much progress in cleaning and organizing, related to my remodel. And, in the midst of all that, I've still been able to prepare for the next two Bible Study series, which I am excited about. God is Good; and I have learned to Thank Him whenever I see His Hand at work.
25-May: What a difference a joyful perspective makes! Today, I was able to say to a friend of mine that this may be the best time of my life ever. That is saying a lot considering that there is nothing majorly amazing going on in my life and I am still facing challenges in my life. BUT, I have JOY. I am able to focus on the good - I am as close to God as I have ever been, I have meaningful and effective areas of service, I'm touching the lives of others, and there are people who truly respect and appreciate me.
18-Jun: In all that I have learned about Joy this past year, I really think the secret to Joy is related to God's Presence in my life: 1) It is a fruit of the Spirit, God dwelling in me, 2) It comes from seeing God's Hand at work in my life, and 3) I comes from abiding in Him (i.e. keeping His commandments and living in obedience so that I do not hinder our relationship, intentionally spending devotional time with Him, etc). So, Joy is directly related to how closely we are walking with God.
5-Sep: If I were to summarize what I had learned about "Finding Joy" and turn it into a devotional, I would share that the Key Verse is Psalm 16:11, and that we are able to most effective sense God's Presence in our lives when we:
- Abide in Him (John 15:4) and thus bear fruit (Gal 5:22-23)
- Be Still (Psalm 46:10)
- Give Thanks (Psalm 100)
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