“We have to choose joy, and keep choosing it..”
― Henri J. Nouwen
Enjoy Your Journey.
As long as we are living, we will always be heading somewhere or doing something. With all that life has to offer, we should be enjoying every moment we have. Do not hold yourself back from appreciating life's simple pleasures. Don't become so focused on what's going on around you that you forget to enjoy the beauty of right now. You can enjoy your life - every single day of it. We must make a conscious decision to choose joy. Wake up everyday and make up your mind to be happy! Yes, there are things in life that happen to us that we cannot control, and we may not always like them when they happen - but what will be our response? Will you choose joy? Joy is constant happiness that isn't based on circumstances. If we rely on ourselves to make it on our own, our joy will not be constant. The important key to keeping consistent joy in our lives is to recognize and enjoy God's presence. When things are good, God smiles with us. When things are bad, God is there to comfort us. Knowing He is there is a soothing assurance that everything will always be OK. When you know and believe that everything will work out for your good in the end, it will be easier to begin to take pleasure in your life. Let nothing steal your joy. Life isn't a race, or a competition to be won. Don't wait on circumstances to be glad, God wants you to enjoy life now. Learn how to celebrate who you are, and where you are right now.
Focus Scriptures:
Psalm 16:11 KJV
Psalm 16:11 KJV
Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
Psalm 21:6 NIV
Surely you have granted him unending blessings and made him glad with the joy of your presence.
Psalm 28:7 NIV
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.
Joy in Action Today:
- Choose a simple task to enjoy alone that will put a smile on your face. Try not to spend any money - instead, enjoy what your surroundings have to offer. Examples: Take a long walk, Read a chapter of your favorite book, Sit by the window and listen to the birds sing.