The devotional below was authored by Katherine Johnson. A former Baylor softball player from 1999-01, Johnson now serves as a sports chaplain to Baylor athletes. She has been in this role since 2008 and considers it to be a true joy to be able to walk alongside the athletes during their time at Baylor. She is married to her best friend, Ben Johnson, who serves as the Heart of Texas FCA Director. They reside in Waco with their three children Ava (11), Haley (9), and Levi (7) that keep them very busy.
CHOOSE JOY
“…for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10
Everywhere we turn today, something or someone tries to steal our joy! How are we supposed to choose joy when we hear of yet another friend or family member who has been diagnosed with the virus? Where’s the joy when our family’s schedule has been interrupted, a loved one has just passed away; a job or financial security is suddenly lost; a son or daughter is about to be deployed; a prodigal child remains far away – where’s the joy in each of these situations? Yes, our lives are filled with disappointments, frustrations, pain, and suffering; but no matter what we are facing, having an attitude of joy will allow us to find the good that God promises us is there. We don’t joy over our trials, but we rejoice over what those trials will accomplish in deepening our faith in God!
Joy is a choice! “Joy is an attitude which stems from our confidence in God,” says Chuck Swindoll, “that He is in full control, that He is at work, and that He is in the midst of whatever has happened, is happening, or will happen to us.” How easily and quickly we let our problems get bigger than our God who “can do anything, you know – far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, His Spirit deeply and gently within us.” (Ephesians 3:20 The Message).
“Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” -Henri Nouwen
God longs for us to persevere – joyfully! (See Philippians 3) Faith gets us started – and a joyful steadfastness keeps us going.
Thank you, Lord, that you are the giver of true joy! May we accept your gift and choose joy today!
“…. you will fill me with joy in your presence….” Psalm 16:11
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