Joy in the Lord

I went with two friends this weekend to another church's retreat. (Yes, I know that can seems scandalous.) But it was so fabulous! We had a great time getting refreshed in the word, refreshed in our friendships, refreshed in our emotional beings, refreshed in our physical bodies. I loved the time to myself, the time with girlfriends, the time to sleep in, the time to read a magazine, the time to get a massage, the time to eat extravagent food, the time to party with girls young and old(er) and the time to study God's word.

Its been rather crazy around here the last 6 months. And so I was skeptical when I realized the topic was Joy. Joy in the Lord, even in struggles, sounded nearly impossible. Is it sounding impossible to you too? Let me share an illustration with you.

Have you read or seen a giraffe give birth?
First of all there's no comfort measures taken to ease this newborn into the world. Mama giraffes give birth standing up, and the baby falls close to 6 feet as it emerges into the world. No soft landing here. After mama gives the baby a quick bath, she begins kicking her young until they remain standing. Kick after kick until the baby stays on its feet. Harsh? Perhaps, but if the baby doesn't immediately rise, its at risk to attack from predators who'd love a snack.

Sometimes I feel like that baby giraffe. I'm just trying to figure things out, and I keep getting kicked. How about you? Is there something that keeps knocking you down?

Romans:5:3-53
3Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

This weekend was a great reminder to be thankful, even in the midst of chaos, because thankfulness will lead to joy in the Lord. Are you joyful? Biblical joy is happiness of the heart. It is knowing Jesus Christ has forgiven us, and loves us, and is preparing us for service and for Him. Even when it isn't comfortable.

Philippians 4:4-6
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

So whatever you have going on, take 10 minutes and come up with 5 things to be thankful for in whatever it is that's stressing you out right now. Five things you can thank the Lord for. And as you do, remember He's soverign and He loves you. Then give Him the situation you're having trouble with right now. Whatever it is that's breaking your heart, give it to Him. Keep giving thanks for your situation, and as you do you'll find joy in the Lord.

Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.