Today I Choose Joy | Anchored in Hope Devotionals

I was given a plaque at Christmas by a family member. It sits on my mantel as a reminder to “Choose Joy.”

Sometimes when life’s trials come our way, we need to be reminded of this. That doesn’t mean we don’t have tears and grief, but it is a reminder that through life’s difficulties we can still have joy!

What is Biblical Joy?

“Biblical joy is a deep, abiding sense of contentment rooted in a relationship with God, transcending circumstances and sustained by faith in His promises.”

Joy is a fruit of the indwelling Holy Spirit in our lives. Think of it, God is present in our lives at all times, and we have a relationship with Him!

Galatians 3:26 says “for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.”

Jesus tells us in John 14 that He is preparing a special room for each one of us. God in His word tells us of the many promises we have because we are His children and we belong to Him.

Hebrews 13:5b “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Psalm 145:18 “The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.”

Romans chapter 8 also has many verses about God’s promises.

As His children we do not face condemnation because we are in Christ Jesus who paid the price for our sins. As His children we can cry out to God “Abba! Father!” We are “heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.” We “will also be glorified with Him, Christ.”

Sometimes when we do not even know how to pray “the Spirit intercedes for us.” Then this wonderful chapter in Romans says that there is absolutely nothing that can “separates us from the love of Christ.”

God’s word is full of His promises to us. Now our part in this is to believe.

Do we trust and have faith in our Sovereign LORD that He knows what He is doing? Do we trust His will for our lives?

All of us have or are facing some very difficult trials. God our Heavenly Father knows all about our lives and is with us at all times. He is very intimately watching over each one of His children. He will give us His grace and strength to live each day no matter what we are facing. We will find peace and rest in Him.

We must remember that our lives here are just a short time compared to eternity with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Today, choose joy!

- Sherry Meyer