last sunday murray preached about the difference between joy and happiness. i always like to say that joy is a choice and happiness is a feeling. sometimes i get too caught up in the feelings of life.
joy is based on god, it's in our hearts, it's from god, it's deeper than emotion and the root of joy is jesus.
happiness is based on circumstances, it's in our minds, it comes from man and it's as shallow as emotion.
james 1 says it's the testing of our faith that produces steadfastness. if you lack wisdom, ask god and he will give generously to you. i've been praying this year that god would grow my faith and specifically that he would produce patience in me.
yesterday oswald chambers wrote that as we pray for patience, god allows suffering in our lives so that we will indeed have that chance to grow. this super difficult year has been a gift from god. a gift.
that changes everything. it's based on god, it's in my heart, it's from god and it's deeper than human emotion. what does that sound like?
JOY
i've become more patient, more trusting in my lord, more steadfast in my faith and i have been blessed this year with trials, suffering and heartbreak.
i choose joy. and thankfulness.
he loved me enough to accept me as i was in december 2010; but he also loved me enough not to leave me there. i'm a different girl in december 2011.
i pray it's for his glory.
