Because Of Joy

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BECAUSE OF JOY

We may be going through hard times right now. It could be financial. It might be our health. It may be relationships or loneliness. Times are tough even during the most happiest time of the year. However, we can find strength. The secret to strength in hard times is joy. How can we have joy when we are in the midst of troubles and pain? We can focus on God. We can remember His grace, His power, His forgiveness, His patience, His comfort and His love. After all, that is what Jesus did when He was enduring the cross. Let’s remember the joy awaiting us just as Jesus did when we endure hard times.

SCRIPTURE: Hebrews 12:2b “Because of the joy awaiting him (Jesus), he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (NLT)

ACTION STEPS:
1. Write what you have endured in life.
2. List ways you can have joy in Christ.
3. Remember God’s promises and blessings.
4. Remember the joy awaiting you that only comes from God.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we want to remember the joy of the Lord is our strength. We want to remember Your love, Your saving grace and Your promises. We know when we focus on You, we will have joy and strength. Help us, we pray, to keep our eyes on You just as Jesus did when He endured the cross. We know You will give us the same joy and strength You gave Jesus if we put our trust in You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

REMEMBER: We can have joy in all things when we remember God and all He has done, is doing and will do for us.

Romans 4:8 “Yes, what joy for those whose record the Lord has cleared of sin.” (NLT)

Nehemiah 8:10b “for the joy of the Lord is your strength!” (NLT)

Psalm 106:3 “There is joy for those who deal justly with others and always do what is right.”

Because of joy in Christ, we can face tomorrow.

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

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