Let us keep looking to Jesus. He is the one who started this journey of faith. And he is the one who completes the journey of faith. He paid no attention to the shame of the cross. He suffered there because of the joy he was looking forward to. Then he sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2 NIRV

Joy provides moments to separate us from the struggles of life. As we release the stress which robs our calm, we witness how it feels to be held by the Father and cradled in the timing of His love.

God wants us to discover PEACE that comes in abundance when we seek the JOY of JESUS! He wants us to experience it every day of our lives. He provides moments to recognize we have been blessed and longs for us to experience the power of faithfulness.

As we learn to TRUST, Jesus creates desire to welcome calm. He shows how it feels to find harmony in HOPE. He helps us witness mercy and grace. He speaks to our hearts so we will understand what has been missing. He opens our eyes in truth and humbles our hearts for the One who covers us with His light. 

The Bible says, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.” Psalm 28:7

How can we sing praises if we don’t feel joyful? Perhaps we must examine our hearts and recognize why we need the Savior! We must know Him more, so we will witness His power of strength and understand the depth of His holiness. He WILL put JOY where it belongs and help us learn what comes from surrender.

God hasn't forgotten about us. He knows how to restore our way of thinking. He will open our hearts to embrace His gifts. “The joy of the Lord is our strength.” He is offering a present of fullness! Ask and you will receive what God is ready to give. We must make room for Jesus.

“Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your JOY may be full. John 16: 24 ESV

~ I pray you will focus on God’s greatest gift to the world and witness His presence. I pray He will place PEACE in your hearts, provide JOY for the journey and nurture a song in your heart. Oh, how we need to make a joyful noise for the One who came to save! God will help us understand WHY we need the JOY of JESUS. He will help us receive and share! He will always be ready to bless us with the fullness of His LOVE.

Dear God, Thank you for the power of precious love. Forgive us when we’re not ready to receive what is ours in surrender. Help us recognize how much we are loved, so we will release what is holding us back from experiencing JOY. We will prayerfully praise You in ALL circumstances. Thank you for what You provide for our lives. Thank you for the gift of Jesus! We will gratefully humble our hearts and make plenty of room for Him. Amen