An athlete who hates training and practices and only enjoys games has far more bad days than good. An FCA staffer who only allows himself to to celebrate after a big, successful ministry event will find a couple of joyful days a year.
But if I can enjoy the process and not merely the destination, my life will be much more joy-filled. Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that should be evident in the life of the Christ Follower. The root word of happiness is happen. My happiness depends on what happens. I win a game, I am happy. I lose a game, I am not happy. However, joy is a constant and is not dependent upon or subject to circumstances. Think of the Bible story of Paul and Silas. Beaten and thrown in jail for preaching the Gospel, they sang praises so loudly that all of the prisoners heard them! Were they happy? No! Were they joyful? Absolutely!
Those who need circumstances and other people (note that these are totally out of our control) to line up just right in order for their attitude to be positive - this person has handed the keys to his life over to others. Inclement weather can kick his tail! Another's actions, words, or even facial expression can effect their day.
I was created to bring glory to God. If that is my life's focus, any and every situation I encounter is a no lose scenario. God is glorified and the result in my life? Joy!
No comments:
Post a Comment