Deeper Joy

On yet another dreary day, keeping spirits high can be a challenge, especially while also knowing of the many desperate needs of others. Communities have been obliterated by tornadoes, families have lost loved ones, and even my hometown is bracing for tremendous flooding. Hard for the heart not to be heavy this week.

However, my children inspire as they disregard the gray skies and chilly breeze and instead spend nearly three hours letting imaginations run wild in the backyard. Ifthey can make the best of things and get lost in their joy, then Mom can take her cues and learn from them.

Today's morning devotion was certainly no mistake, and it reminds of a deeper joy in spite of our circumstances. Nehemiah 8:10 reads, "...the joy of the Lord is your strength." as the people receive encouragement from their leaders and go on to celebrate as they remember their freedom from captivity, "...and they were all filled with great joy!" (verse 17)

See, as the people were listening to the book of Moses being read (there were no Bibles then, no hard copies of scripture, so this was likely the first time they were hearing such things), they became overwhelmed by all of God's laws for His people. However, the wise leaders remind them not to let circumstances overwhelm, but instead to be overwhelmed with joy in remembered blessings and to find strength in their Creator.

As the devotion reads, "Supernatural joy...enables us to experience a deeper joy that is not so dependent on our circumstances. As we live by correct priorities, cultivating our relationship with Christ on a daily basis, we will begin to experience a quiet joy resulting from a sense of security that we belong to God, and He is indeed in control of our lives. When we focus on this security, we will be free to relax and trust Him in whatever situation we find ourselves. We will not always feel happy, but we will have a deeper sense of joy that we belong to Christ and that His plans for us are good."

How refreshing to know that we are not forever forced to ride the emotional roller coaster of our circumstances!

While the events of life may be painful and even heart-breaking, especially in the communities all around us, we can still find security when we focus on the One who made us and has our whole life in His hands. His plans may not be the same as ours, but His incredible love for us convinces that He wants nothing short of the best in the 'big picture' of our lives. This is the knowledge that brings 'quiet joy.'

Believing for quiet joy in this heart and in the hearts of those across the country.

336. Newfound energy in early hours.

337. Quiet car rides and extra time for prayer.

338. Afternoons spent at home.

339. Watching my boys play baseball, even when they lose.

340. Coach Dad and his calm spirit during tough games.

341. Awards for young 'Royal Rangers' and their accomplishments in learning scripture and other important life skills.

342. Amazing men who invest in young Rangers.

343. Celebrating with great friends as beautiful daughters are crowned for their hard work.

344. A heavy heart that reminds me to pray.

345. A blessed Krew that inspires me to make the most of every day, no matter the circumstance.