JOY!

So here in Southeast Virginia we are experiencing some chilly weather. It's like winter's grip is just not loosening up. I mean come on! Our tourist season is about to begin and I can still comfortably wear a scarf during the day! So not right! 

But on the bright side (literally) - the sun has been out for two days straight and if the forecaster is correct (we shall see) we will have sun for the next 10 days! 10 DAYS! That is definitely something to smile about. 

So my morning devotion was about Joy and felt like I needed to share some of that with you all. There is just something about that unspeakable joy! It is something that God has given us and we have the choice to enter into that Joy or not. It isn't the same thing as being happy. Happiness is an emotion that is effected by our daily routines. Someone cuts us off in traffic, happiness gone! Dog pees in the bed, happiness gone! There are many things that can happen throughout our day that can definitely take our happiness away. But that Joy! It isn't an emotion. It is from our heavenly father! It is a fruit of God's Spirit. As Sarah Matheny says, "It is a manifestation of who He is, a result of the heart-transforming power of Jesus Christ in us." Someone cutting us off or a dog ruining your perfectly clean down comforter isn't enough to take away our Joy! 

Sarah also says, "Joy is not a momentary pleasure - it is the deep and lasting condition of our relationship with God this world cannot steal away." We have so much to be joyful for! So remember that today loves. As the busyness of our lives can take over just take a moment to thank God for his Joy that resides in each of us. Enter into that Joy today!

'Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." John 16:22, NIV

*Sarah Matheny, She Reads Truth