This is not like a lesson in physics or quantum theory. What it is, however, is this: this is a lesson designed to show you, definitively, that the catalyst for your joy is a fundamental constant. How much joy we have depends on how much joy we want! Did you realize that? If you really want joy, then you'll have it.
Most people think in the context that joy is like the weather. Our joy is either hot or cold, present or absent, on or off. We incorrectly assume that fixed external factors determine the scale of joy we experience. We believe we have no personal, individual control over our joy.
We believe our joy results primarily from things like dollars in our wallets, the square footage of our homes, the cars in the garage, the carats in our diamonds, and other measures of apparent success. Not true.
Joy is something we regulate. Just like we turn the thermostat up to get more air conditioning in summer or more heat in winter, we can also adjust the amount of joy that we have in our lives at any given moment.
The dimension of joy is entirely up to you! It's completely your decision.
The degree of joy is all in your hands. There's nothing or no one keeping you from enjoying everyday joy.
The magnitude of your joy is completely under your control.
The Word speaks to us definitively about the source of full joy. Jesus had an abundance of the Father's joyfulness, and as we grow in Christ-likeness, we grow in His joy. These words, which were spoken about Jesus Christ by the Apostle Simon Peter, quote the prophetic words of David as recorded in Psalm 16:8-11.
Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.-Acts 2:28
Life! What a fascinating journey. Yet, unfortunately, too many of us listen to self-defeating words and discouragement. We are on the brink of experiencing the greatest deficit of joy that the world has ever known. Why? Because we are so accustomed of seeking joy in external things. Continual joy comes only from continually practicing His presence in our everyday lives.
It's time to get ready for your moment of unsurpassed joy! Can you sustain it? The goal is to make your joy last, not just for a moment-for a lifetime! In Christ, we enjoy God's presence and favor forever.
And, with that level of joy, suddenly-anything is possible.
© Regina M. Prude, 2011BP-Rev
Regina is an author, syndicated columnist, inspirational and motivational speaker, and self-proclaimed Chief Evangelist of Joy. She believes in the power of words to inspire, uplift, heal, strengthen and connect us with one another. Additional resources are available at her blog site: http://www.reginaprude.com/. To contact her for speaking engagements, please email her at regina@reginaprude.com.
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