The Biblical witness lets us know that joy is matter of choice, it is not a matter of chance. You don’t have to sit around and wait for everything to get fixed so that you can get happy. Rather, you can choose joy no matter what.
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! —Philippians 4:4 (NIV)
What do you glean from this short verse?
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 (NIV)
Why is anxiety such a joy killer?
Anxiety is the result of assuming control and responsibility over things that do not recognize your sovereignty. And most often asks the question… “What if…?”
What “what ifs” have you asked recently?
What have these “what ifs” done for your joy?
Paul gives us some advice to combat anxiety in our lives.
Worry about
What do you worry about?
“That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? 27 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? —Matthew 6:25-27 (NLT)
What is Jesus saying here?
Pray about
This may sound like a “super religious” feat, but in truth, God likes the sound of your voice and just wants you to talk to him.
What might it look like to pray about everything?
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. —1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)
Give thanks for
Always be joyful. 17 Never stop praying. 18 Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. —1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT)
Why are joyful people most often thankful people?
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. —Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
*Why is it important to not just empty our minds, but to fill it as well?
How can you practice a less anxious life this week?*