TODAY’S INSPIRATION: JOY & PEACE

Joy is a deep and enduring state of our soul that no circumstance, event, or human can steal away from us. It’s delighting in God and choosing to rejoice in all things. If we don’t let our circumstances rule us, our mood swings are nonexistent. This doesn’t mean we are always in a “good mood”; it does not mean we are happy about what may be happening, it means we can remain in an unexplainable place of contentment. Joyful people don’t allow misery, sorrow, sadness, or despair to rule their thoughts or guide their actions. Joy is a state of being, and it differs from happiness, which can come and go. Happiness depends on what's happening at the moment. As Christians, we have been given something that cannot be taken away. We have joy because of the grace of Jesus Christ that lives in us. We can hold onto joy, we can feel joyful, and we can rejoice with praise no matter what our circumstances may be. We don’t rejoice for the problem or circumstance, we rejoice because no matter what is going on in our lives, God is always nearby. And that comforts us and brings us peace. Peace is a deep well of confidence that God is who He is and that He will do what He says He will do. Peace isn’t tied to circumstances. True peace can only be found through a relationship with our Father and from resting in the promises of God. The best way I have found to maintain this joy and peace God has given me is to keep my gaze on Him, and my glance on the world. As C.S. Lewis said, "Life with God is not immunity from difficulties, but peace in difficulties." Love and blessings...

“You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.” (Isaiah 55:12)
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27)
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”(Philippians 4:6-7)