A Beautiful Mindset Makes A Beautiful Day

Joy: An Inside Job

This evening I watched Easter Bloom on Hallmark. In the Pastor's sermon, he said "joy is steadfast in sorrow and triumphant in tribulations." Out of the whole movie, these words spoke loudest to me. Below is my take on this phrase: 

Finding Strength in Sorrow and Tribulation

In a world where external circumstances often dictate our emotions, joy is a beacon of hope - an unwavering light from within. Unlike fleeting happiness. joy is not tethered to fleeting moments or external events. Instead, it springs forth from the depths of our souls, resilient and steadfast. Let us explore the essence of joy, its roots, and how it remains triumphant even in the face of adversity. 

Ingredients of Joy

1. A Cleansed Life: "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ..."(Romans 5:1) Joy begins with a heart washed clean. When faith justifies us, peace with God follows, and joy blossoms. Sin, like a thief, robs us of joy. It creates a chasm between us and our Creator. But when we confess, repent, and embrace forgiveness, joy returns. It is the understanding that nothing stands between us and God - a bridge unbroken. 
2. Confidence in Hope: "...through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope in the glory of God." (Romans 5:2)  Hope fuels joy. It is not wishful thinking, it is confidence anchored in God's promises. No matter the trials, we know that He works all things for good (Romans 8:28). Joy persists in sorrow, triumphant in tribulation. like an expectant mother, we endure the travail of life, knowing that something glorious awaits. 
3. Commitment to Lordship: Joy thrives in hearts wholly surrendered. Every corner of our being - mind, will, emotions - is dedicated to Christ. His lordship purifies, keeping us clean. Joy is not a veneer, it is the very fabric of existence. We choose joy when we choose him. 
4. Communion with the Vine: "Joy is not found in circumstances; it is found in a person." - Adrian Rogers.  Joy flows from our connection to Jesus, the Vine. We do not manufacture it, we bear it. Abiding in Him, we receive supernatural joy. It is the fruit of the Spirit, ripening in our souls. In communion, we find joy that transcends earthly trials. 

Conclusion: Rejoicing is a choice - an inside job. Happiness flits away, but joy remains. It is the melody that echoes through tears, the sunrise after the darkest night. So, embrace joy. Let it be your anthem in sorrow, your victory cry in tribulation. For joy is not fleeting; it is eternal - a gift from the One who whispers, "I am with you always."

Have a blessed Easter Sunday one and all!  Until next time, dance, laugh, find the joy within you!