Monday, April 25, 2022

Reflection - Journeying With God - Finding true joy

Source (book): "He Walks with Me - Devotions for Your Caregiving Journey with God", PART I "JOURNEYING WITH GOD", Chapter 8 "Finding true joy", Page 24.
Adapted from books by Shelly Beach: Ambushed By Grace: Help and Hope in the Caregiving Journey, and It Is Well with My Soul.


Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
PHOTO: Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

As Christians, we're often reminded that we should experience joy in the midst of our trials. We are expected to feel good - and show a smile or two - when life is painful.

But let's be honest. It's hard to feel happy about the burden you carry as a caregiver. When you're stretched to your limits, exhausted by your schedule, and frustrated by the demands all around you, it's hard to even smile, never mind feel joyful.

But that's not what joy is about Joy isn't feeling happy artificially, or putting a brave smile on your tired face and saying everything's okay.

Joy is trusting God and His great and glorious plan, knowing that it surpasses your understanding. Joy is the innate (natural) confidence that God is in control. It is the assurance that after you've done all you can, you can rest because God is responsible for the outcome.

Such trust cannot be created by our own strength; rather, it is something we choose. On our caregiving journey, we need to choose joy.

But how can we do this? How can we choose joy such that it flows freely into and through our lives?

By abiding in Christ. By staying in constant contact and connection with Jesus daily, so that we build a close, intimate relationship with Him. First Thessalonians 5:16-18 puts it practically: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Focusing on who Jesus is, His character, work, and promises, allows us to draw on His strength and see life through His eyes. Over time, it will change our mind-set and perspective on our trials (James 1:2-4), and we will understand that the final outcome will be greater than anything we suffer now.

As 1 Peter 1:6-9 says, we will be able to rejoice knowing that our faith has been proven, knowing that this will result in praise, glory, and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed: "Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your soul."

Finding Joy:
  • Stay close to Jesus in prayer.
  • Look for reasons to praise God.
  • Give thanks for His blessings.
  • Focus on who Jesus is: His character, His work, and His promises.
Joy is a choice, not a feeling.
 
 
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18


Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
PHOTO: Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Picture posted by Artisseum
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3NdQaGnJ-DchqopqZFlhHuPIcK2w5OHsVf0r6HIBNyVpALsfNab9VI3Pv1hNcqknAIp3kuxsfHsaZvZ8OgDKk8gQ44GqiWcuIovu8GCYr-Qxf9OUUX7owKp5Pz0tRNyWgO2a9KBraut6iTLU8IZcdb_giobipiKHKQz4c8kXWhbbAWeKBHNi3WKU/s1621/The-Good-Sherperd.jpg
https://artisseum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/The-Good-Sherperd.jpg
https://artisseum.com/jesus-christ-paintings/


As Christians, we're often reminded that we should experience joy in the midst of our trials. We are expected to feel good - and show a smile or two - when life is painful.

But let's be honest. It's hard to feel happy about the burden you carry as a caregiver. When you're stretched to your limits, exhausted by your schedule, and frustrated by the demands all around you, it's hard to even smile, never mind feel joyful.


It's hard to feel happy about the burden you carry as a caregiver.
PHOTO: It's hard to feel happy about the burden you carry as a caregiver. When you're stretched to your limits, exhausted by your schedule, and frustrated by the demands all around you, it's hard to even smile, never mind feel joyful.
Picture posted by Akspic
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdtx1JdhpoUZK0YgJ0mVg-z77qv0Co6zonkw4zZwH5SmGECO8bFJw67Q_puspRegj1QaNSUUIWHqj2MMb0ktkuPkagQRWUaxDjBHd2yd1qDmICG3A9kZx1VXyiNNzdTA0SVbFKMqcjpVpb81XWFP_XmsalZ5qrjVULeVf4ZTS1wU9Jm708ZAZBTKtb/s1200/156571-nature-art-plant-people_in_nature-happy-x750.jpg
https://img3.wallspic.com/previews/1/7/5/6/5/156571/156571-nature-art-plant-people_in_nature-happy-x750.jpg
https://wallspic.com/image/156571-nature-art-plant-people_in_nature-happy


But that's not what joy is about Joy isn't feeling happy artificially, or putting a brave smile on your tired face and saying everything's okay.

Joy is trusting God and His great and glorious plan, knowing that it surpasses your understanding. Joy is the innate (natural) confidence that God is in control. It is the assurance that after you've done all you can, you can rest because God is responsible for the outcome.


Joy is trusting God and His great and glorious plan, knowing that it surpasses your understanding.
PHOTO: Joy is trusting God and His great and glorious plan, knowing that it surpasses your understanding. Joy is the innate (natural) confidence that God is in control. It is the assurance that after you've done all you can, you can rest because God is responsible for the outcome.
Picture posted by Daniele, The Better Mom on 13 March 2022
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wXMjnvLOR5dHGDmxdCZPxsiPBumZaWz88roX57Y7iyyp0EsVYZydDS8Vml7DJPemrRLpsC1AyKQCKh2nWGxb_P4jESMCqtF5mkGOPoFTxkRr8kY_uAzyJf0vXz9GjwMnh7FsQ4MBCbKQby1e_wcPs8gNfiajz9VHIjX6FJq1hnzRnkyEmzh6Jyxh/s824/The_Better_Mom_image-asset_1.png
https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/54220a55e4b041fec87d2d0d/1426251781785-KX8HBGHPLJE85FCFWV4H/image-asset.jpeg?format=750w
https://www.thebettermom.com/blog/2015/3/10/even-in-the-fear-trust-god


Such trust cannot be created by our own strength; rather, it is something we choose. On our caregiving journey, we need to choose joy.

But how can we do this? How can we choose joy such that it flows freely into and through our lives?


Such trust cannot be created by our own strength; rather, it is something we choose.
PHOTO: Such trust cannot be created by our own strength; rather, it is something we choose. On our caregiving journey, we need to choose joy.
Picture posted by WallpaperAccess
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3h7v7ey98PVJOzVClfDeasjHQpbXOC6WpLnwNLj2KkzEdvy9V2_Z3juxe1St5lPSnlH9YzsQd09kW0XNEp5oKgme_BMjfispkr2L7y8uJ04ZicLxROtWSZ1LnHet3NEc-i0BxgqIFDpM9lyew6k9X3PGtcwjS_YzFVuGnmQw--WH0sav9T2qccdYb/s1080/27677_1.png
https://wallpaperaccess.com/full/27677.jpg
https://wallpaperaccess.com/girl-in-nature


By abiding in Christ. By staying in constant contact and connection with Jesus daily, so that we build a close, intimate relationship with Him. First Thessalonians 5:16-18 puts it practically: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

Focusing on who Jesus is, His character, work, and promises, allows us to draw on His strength and see life through His eyes. Over time, it will change our mind-set and perspective on our trials (James 1:2-4), and we will understand that the final outcome will be greater than anything we suffer now.


By abiding in Christ. By staying in constant contact and connection with Jesus daily, so that we build a close, intimate relationship with Him.
PHOTO: By abiding in Christ. By staying in constant contact and connection with Jesus daily, so that we build a close, intimate relationship with Him. First Thessalonians 5:16-18 puts it practically: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
Picture posted by WallpaperAccess
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCHUzgxf7b82eaBEYbCvPING9RxjEHCvsRG3gqTMwExU_oDL3wtR-2vymLY4GkETbutFwTAq_EWmzsZ-GfjMY9OfLH1oqYGtwTt-EPzn9URnpkMkR_CqhMOu-hfFNEplfV0Gqy6wzxHyYr28QBkazwm5BSLA9xcNLpKe43XgvaMVHkMaByv5iyANi/s1032/1503333_1.jpg
https://wallpaperaccess.com/full/1503333.jpg
https://wallpaperaccess.com/beauty-girl


As 1 Peter 1:6-9 says, we will be able to rejoice knowing that our faith has been proven, knowing that this will result in praise, glory, and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed: "Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your soul."


As 1 Peter 1:6-9 says, we will be able to rejoice knowing that our faith has been proven, knowing that this will result in praise, glory, and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed
PHOTO: As 1 Peter 1:6-9 says, we will be able to rejoice knowing that our faith has been proven, knowing that this will result in praise, glory, and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed: "Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your soul."
Picture posted by Warona on 11 November 2015
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpYpKPAYb-41TuJS7wB0U__1NvkdwZQ8ai9lE3eC0oFDLIu8UN2YryORQWmc9BfItx9NpVTSg8weZ_qooQKymqF9B8bhCiQI_fJ_zDCTaA053yrq-bB4fI59F_xP2bPioeUqwr4l5rXJdbg9JoD07j-QwfoU6ejU0Wg-i8cVe73S9gxsVyk-3lbs5f/s640/img_4470.jpg
https://godchildwarona.files.wordpress.com/2015/11/img_4470.jpg
https://godchildwarona.wordpress.com/tag/1-peter-16-9/


Finding Joy:
  • Stay close to Jesus in prayer.
  • Look for reasons to praise God.
  • Give thanks for His blessings.
  • Focus on who Jesus is: His character, His work, and His promises.
Joy is a choice, not a feeling.


Joy is a choice, not a feeling
PHOTO: "Dear Father, I sometimes expect joy to come as an emotion. Help me to see it as a choice. Today, I choose joy in my circumstances. You have chosen and redeemed me, crowned me with love and compassion, and I can do nothing less than overflow with joy at Your great love for me, for those I love, and for a broken world.

Through Lord Jesus Christ we pray. Amen!"
Picture posted by Depositphotos - Healthy active lifestyle
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_k19uWlRlPkVX6-ys7uqqp_Ad3vdHZjtWvUbLNM-BXi3ShfUr24IwYJCuixVEVfNhI9B90LkF0JV6pBVVhqrlTo4HQCfVXX4YxRVujv1V1mi-vAyquKFeGVu6cH4-Qqodts-gWyZnj9d5P8h2RYlFs40UiuC0QTV-dpVkG40vNliH9wDbchjZ52p/s1600/depositphotos_499005594_1.png
https://st2.depositphotos.com/2069237/49900/i/1600/depositphotos_499005594-stock-photo-healthy-active-lifestyle-running-asian.jpg
https://depositphotos.com/search/by-images.html?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdph-site-data.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com%2Fstorage%2FsearchByImage%2Fimage_5e16fbfe94056b032b0a6d717f5b8554.jpg&qview=499005594

Reflection - Journeying With God -
Source (book): "He Walks with Me - Devotions for Your Caregiving Journey with God", PART I "JOURNEYING WITH GOD", Chapter 8 "Finding true joy", Page 24.
Adapted from books by Shelly Beach: Ambushed By Grace: Help and Hope in the Caregiving Journey, and It Is Well with My Soul.


Other Books (Links)

"Faithful to the end", A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon

'Faithful to the end', A Preacher's Exposition of 2 Timothy, @ 2014 by Robert M. Solomon<br>
Reflection - Faithful to the end (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2017/06/reflection-faithful-to-end-links.html


"Finding rest for the soul" Responding to Jesus' Invitation in Matthew 11:28-29, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
Reflection - Finding rest for the soul (Links)
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2018/10/reflection-finding-rest-for-soul-links.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART I-III, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-i.html


"God in Pursuit" Lessons from the Book of Jonah, © 2016 by Robert M. Solomon

'Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Reflection - God in Pursuit (Links) - PART IV, posted on Saturday, 10 August 2019
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2019/08/reflection-god-in-pursuit-links-part-iv.html 


"Songs of Christmas", The Stories and Significance of 20 Well-Loved Carols, © 2018 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Songs of Christmas (Links), posted on Friday, 24 April 2020
Reflection - Songs of Christmas (Links), posted on Friday, 24 April 2020
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/04/reflection-songs-of-christmas-links.html
 

"Growing Old Gracefully", Following Jesus to the End, © 2019 by Robert M. Solomon

Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part I - III (Links), posted on Wednesday, 09 December 2020
Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part I - III (Links), posted on Wednesday, 09 December 2020
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/12/reflection-growing-old-gracefully-part.html
 

Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part IV - V (Links), posted on Thursday, 22 April 2021
Reflection - Growing Old Gracefully, Part IV - V (Links), posted on Thursday, 22 April 2021
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2020/12/reflection-growing-old-gracefully-part_9.html
 

"Teach Us to Number Our Days", © 2008 by David Roper

Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 1 - 40 (Links), posted on Tuesday, 16 November 2021
Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 1 - 40 (Links), posted on Tuesday, 16 November 2021
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2021/11/reflection-number-our-days-chapter-1-40.html
 
 
Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 41 - 64 (Links), posted on Wednesday, 16 March 2022
Reflection - Number Our Days, Chapter 41 - 64 (Links), posted on Wednesday, 16 March 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/03/reflection-number-our-days-chapter-41.html
 


Reference
[1] From "He Walks with Me - Devotions for Your Caregiving Journey with God", Copyright © 2018 by Our Daily Bread Ministries, PART I "JOURNEYING WITH GOD", Chapter 8 "Finding true joy", Page 24-25.


Links

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