New Year’s is a time when people review the past year and look forward to the days ahead. Pam and I usually take some time on New Years Day to pray through our journals. We consider what God has said and what He has done, listening for His voice of guidance.

One of the lessons that God has been driving home in my life lately is about joy. Where do you try to find joy? Like many people, I can tend to initially look for joy in the context of the circumstances of my life. Even in my walk with God, I can act as if joy is only possible when things are going well, troubles are nowhere to be seen, or difficult decisions do not need to be made.

A verse that continues to be at the forefront of my mind everyday, tells me something different!

In Romans 12:12, Paul gives this exhortation:

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (NIV).

What God has settled into my heart?

My joy is grounded in the hope I have in Christ, not in my circumstances.

When I do encounter trials, persevere! Don’t lose hope (or joy)!
Instead of turning to despair because things aren’t going well, I take the challenges to God.

Think about a personal challenge in which you can choose joy, rather than being disillusioned. Know God is with you and He will see you through.