Joy Is A Choice!

TODAY’S VERSE

“Whatever happens, my dear brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord.”
Philippians 3:1

 “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!”
Philippians 4:4

“The joy of the LORD is your strength!”
Nehemiah 8:10

TODAY’S THOUGHT
I remember years ago reading a book that deeply touched me. It was called, “Happiness is a Choice!” Often we are tempted to think that joy is the result of our circumstances. However, the premise of “Happiness Is A Choice” is that we don’t have to be subject to all the variables around us. We can choose to be happy. We can choose joy. Webster defines joy as “the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires.” As a Christian, we can agree with the first part. Our joy does come from a deep sense of well being. However, unlike the rest of the definition, our joy is not dependent on success, good fortune or prospect of possessions. Rather our joy is an emotion that is evoked by a faith in a God that loves us.
Nehemiah tells us that joy that comes from God is a great source of strength. Paul takes our joy to a new level and says, “no matter what happens, we should be joyful.” In fact he says we should “Always be full of joy in the Lord.” He meant it so much that he repeated it for emphasis when he wrote, “I say it again – rejoice.” What are you facing today? What circumstances do you find yourself in? It doesn’t matter, you can choose joy! If you are struggling and not sure how you can be joyful, ask God to supernaturally open your eyes to who He is and to give you a joyful heart. He will.

TODAY’S PRAYER
Father, today I choose joy. Fill me from the top of my head to the depth of my soul with joy. Help me rejoice today in my well being in you. Help me rejoice today dear God in who you are, and that I am your child. Help me rejoice today, that all my sins are forgiven, that you know me personally and love me unconditionally. This is a fantastic reality and today Lord, I choose joy!
AMEN

Ron Ovitt is an author, ordained minister, pastoral counselor, recovery coach, and President of Empower Ministry. Besides his lifetime experience of teaching and preaching, Ron has given over 500 lectures on habits, addictions, and emotional & spiritual-related topics. For information on his books, videos, and podcasts, go to www.ronovitt.com<http://www.ronovitt.com>