Guarding our joy is no easy task. If we’re not careful, trials and unwanted surprises can snatch our joy in an instant. So, how do we prepare ourselves from all the Joy Stealers that we are all bound to face at some point in our lives?
1 Peter 1:3-7
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations
The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., 1 Pe 1:3–6). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.
Two Powerful Reminders When Guarding Our Joy:
Step One: Focus our attention on our Living Hope and not the moment. Because of His great mercy, we now possess a hope that was meant for our good while we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. We don’t have to wait until a trial is over to have this Hope. We can have Hope in the midst of the heartbreak. Not an ordinary hope, rather a Living Hope that produces Joy. Isn’t it wonderful that God is guarding all the blessings He has stored for us? Isn’t it a joyful reminder to consider that He will never leave us or forsake us. His blessings and His promises are not dependent on our abilities or strength, but His alone. Walking in joy is possible when we set our attention on our Hope instead of our heartbreaks.
Step Two: Set our attention on praise. Living a Joy-filled life will spill over in our actions. We will smile more, say kind words, and think joy building thoughts. Research confirms what the Scriptures tell us. When we smile, listen to joyful music, or surround ourselves with others who are joy-filled we too are more joyful.
There are so many verses and testimonies in the Scriptures that encourage me to hold fast to my joy, however, one of my favorite verses that I often remind the family of is in Philippians. I can’t emphasize enough, the importance of taking our thoughts captive. We must set our attention on giving praise to the One who can do exceedingly, abundantly, more in our lives than we could have ever imagined.
Three Of My Favorite Scriptures For Guarding Joy
Philippians 4:8-9
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things
The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Php 4:8). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.
Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law
The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Ga 5:22–23). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.
Philippians 4: 4-7
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
The Holy Bible: King James Version. (2009). (Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version., Php 4:4–7). Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc.
I hope you’ll join me today as I make the decision to cut off any and all excuses that would keep me from guarding my joy!
Until our next chat,
Your friend,
Mrs. Joseph Wood
