It is hard to believe, but it is already January 31! We have focused all month on the word JOY and what it means for us as Christians. We have looked at how to have it and why it is important.
Did you learn anything?
I know I did. Here are some of the things that I have learned:
1. Joy is not based on outward circumstances but on my relationship with Christ.
2. Joy can only be found in a life of obedience to God and His Word.
3. Joy is evidence of our salvation.
4. Joy is only found by keeping our eyes on Jesus and off of ourselves.
5. If I search for joy in an attempt to fulfill myself, I won’t find it, but if I seek to please God with my life, it is then that I will find true joy.
6. If I am complaining, whining, and griping – whether with my words or with my thoughts – joy flees.
7. A grateful heart walks hand in hand with joy.
8. Joy and peace are like twin sisters. They really cannot be separated. (thanks to my cousin, Melissa, for this analogy that has stuck with me all month!)
9. Trials and sufferings are a good test to see if we actually have the joy that God has promised to provide or simply the temporary happiness that disappears as soon as the hard times come.
10. Joy isn’t something that I can check off my spiritual to-do list, but will be something I need to work on all of my life.
There you have it! Ten things I have learned this month. Do you have anything to add? I hope that this study has been as beneficial for you as it has been for me.
And before I close out this month, I want to thank my friend, Fran, who was really the inspiration of this series and who truly does emulate godly joy.
I wish God’s blessing on you all as you continue your journey to walk in joy–
~Leslie
I’ve enjoyed this series so much. I did learn a lot. You gave me so much to reflect on. Blessings to you, Leslie.
Thank you, Kathleen!