Joy

The Oxford Dictionary defines joy as “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness”. However, The Bible Project has another definition of joy. It defines joy as “a lasting emotion that comes from the choice to trust that God will fulfill His promises.” That last definition is so true! Joy is consistent, unconditional, and a choice you make. Our hearts are filled with pure joy when we trust God.

For some, asking you to think about true joy in 2024 is incredibly easy. For others of you, finding joy as you reflect on 2024 seems impossible. You are not alone. Trust me, I understand this all too well. This year has brought so much stress, heartache, and loss. About 9 months ago, my world fell apart as I tragically lost 2 parents at once. It was the hardest phone call that I have ever gotten and the hardest phone call I’ve ever had to make to my sisters. Honestly, thinking about joy was definitely not my first thought. I had (and still have) so many questions because no part of that day makes sense. Your 2024 story might be like mine where there’s an empty seat (or 2) at the table for the first time at Christmas. Maybe you or a friend got an unexpected diagnosis this year. Your 2024 story may include a new baby, a new friend, or a new job. Wherever 2024 has taken you or whatever you have faced, finding your joy this Christmas season is a choice. One scripture verse that has helped a lot this year is Nehemiah 8:10. It says, “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” Even in the hardest, most unhappy times, we can still have joy in the Lord because He loves us, makes us strong, and never leaves us behind.

So, today I choose joy. I choose to put my trust in God. I choose to know that God will fulfill His promises in His time. I choose this because this life can be hard and I need the joy of the Lord to make it through. I am simply not strong enough on my own. I challenge you to do the same. Henri Nouwen (a Dutch professor/priest) said that “Joy doesn’t simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” On the good days, remember that your joy comes from the Lord. On the hard days, remember that your joy and strength comes from the Lord. The goal is to choose joy each day. But how do you do that daily (even on the hard days)? The best way is to spend time with God. Pause what you are doing, take a breath, and focus on God, even if it’s just for a moment. Stop and ask God to fill you with joy and strength to face your adventures. The words of your prayer may look like a mixed up bowl of alphabet soup letters just floating around, but God knows your heart, knows the words you are trying to say, and sees you through your tears.

My Christmas wish for all of you is this (Romans 15:13) “May the God of hope fill you with all JOY and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”



Merry Christmas!

Lizzie