Joy is something that everyone loves to experience. Oddly enough, some folks seem to experience extra doses of Joy in their lives, while others spend much of their lives practicing to be a curmudgeon. God’s Word tells us not to be concerned when trials and tribulations overtake us. As we continue to focus on Him and His Word, we will eventually experience a breakthrough to calmer waters. His Word also tells us that these trials and tribulations are there to test our metal… hmmm.

Take the prophet Daniel; even while being held in captivity in Babylon for close to 60 years; he refused to worship King Nebuchadnezzar. He was able to endure his exile through prayer and his relationship with the God-of-Heaven. And when Paul was thrown in prison, he was able to sing his way through his incarceration. Even the most basic blessings of life should bring us great joy.

When You Breathe: Count it all joy. It seems overwhelming when you’re in the midst of a struggle that takes your breath away. You can always remember Isaiah 42: 5… ‘Thus, says the Lord your God, who created the heavens, and who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it. So, remember, there is no life until God first provides breath. It’s a gift that no one can survive without. 

When you Speak: Speech is a Blessing for everyone who has been blessed with it. In Exodus 4: 12, God instructs Moses… “Now therefore go and speak to Pharaoh; I will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall speak.” Moses struggled with speech, so God promised to give Him words, and He did. So, when words become difficult for you, stop and ask God to intervene; He will speak for you.  

When you have Sight: The Psalmist in Chapter 121, verse 1… “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help”. The blessing of being able to see is truly one of God’s miracles; the sunrise and sunset, the flowers, our loved ones, even that special someone God sends your way.

When you have ears to Hear: Even when there are many voices, we can still listen closely for the still small voice of God. And when you hear from God, you will experience the joy that only He can provide. 

When you talk with God: InPsalm 34: 4, the psalmist shares… “I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears”. Reading God’s Word is the most effective way to hear what His Word wants to tell us. Read until the Holy Spirit starts to speak… then stop and listen closely. When we commune with God in this manner, it will bring you joy. Try it daily; I believe you will like it.

James 1: 2, tells us to… "Count it all joy, my brothers when you meet trials of various kinds." So, as you go about your day, remember, you can experience the joy that James speaks of by simply remembering that God is with you always.