Sunday Drive - Always Joyful

Is it possible to always be joyful? My answer to you is yes! Even in the toughest times we can be joyful. Because joy and happiness are two different things. Happiness is in circumstantial. Joy is deep in my soul and is based on my relationship with Jesus.

Romans 15:13(NLT)
13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18(NLT)
16 Always be joyful. 17 Never stop praying. 18 Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Being thankful in all circumstances is the key to joy! Definitely not easy, especially when you're going through a really tough time. But you can be thankful! Just a simple prayer of, 'Thank You, Jesus.' He already knows all that you're going through. He is right there with you. Just realizing that you are never alone can give you joy!

Romans 12:12(NLT)
12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.

I believe that as he was riding the donkey down the streets of Jerusalem, He knew what what going to happen... but He was joyful of the hope to come. Not about what He was going to endure, but that on the other side of cross, was the hope He would bring to everyone for all time!

Ephesians 1:7-8(NLT)
7 He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. 8 He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding.

Think about all that Christ has done for you, there is always something to be thankful for. Then build upon that, think about His character, His grace, unfailing love, His continual presence. Before long joy will bubble to the surface and you will remember that all is well with your soul.

Psalms 143:8(NASB)
Let me hear Your faithfulness in the morning, For I trust in You; Teach me the way in which I should walk; For to You I lift up my soul.

Blessings,
Lori