Choosing Joy

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I have said these things to you,
that in Me you may have peace.
In the world you will have tribulation.
But take heart; I have overcome the world.
- John 16:33

Granddaughter Shalom, Peaceful One is two months old today.

It's hard to believe that it's been eight weeks since she was born!

I've been in Manila for three weeks already, so I have not seen this little one for quite some time. But she, and my three other grandchildren are never far from my thoughts. Each morning I lift them all up to my heavenly Father for His protection and care to surround them.

And today, as my youngest grandchild celebrates her second month, I am praying for God's joy to fill and saturate her young life.

The Bible verse quoted above was very much on my heart as I remembered her very early this morning.

There will always be trouble, difficulties, suffering, and disappointments in this world… but Jesus builds courage into us as He says, Take heart, I have overcome the world.

Joy is indeed a choice that we can make daily. 

I can't remember when joy began to take a prominent role in my life. All I can say is that at this point in my life, joy seems to be my constant companion in my journey.

Jesus' words take heart is also translated be of good cheer… or take courage… or be encouraged.

A joyful heart is a strong heart… it can face anything. It can endure difficulties, it can survive a devastating storm.

When I look back at the different chapters of my life story, I can pinpoint the turning points, and those were the instances when I found myself falling to hit the rock bottom of disappointment, or pain. And yet, in all those rock bottom events of my life, never once did I hit bedrock. Always, always, Jesus my Savior and Redeemer was there whispering, "Be of good cheer… I am here."

So comforting and so reassuring it has been, that in the darkest night seasons of my life, the joy of heaven has brought the brightest light.

How my heart surges with joy at the thought that if God is our Abba Avinu, and Yeshua HaMashiach is our Redeemer, and Ruach HaKadosh is our Breath of Life, then indeed joy can be our daily portion.

Heavenly Father builds strength inside of us by pouring His joy into our hearts to overflowing… if we will but choose to let Him.

Joy is a choice…

So my dearest Shalom, Peaceful One… today I bless you with overflowing joy.

I declare that joy will be your daily portion and constant companion as you travel through life.

May Abba Father surround your heart with songs of joy and heavenly laughter. 

My little granddaughter, you will cultivate the beauty of a joyful heart… in your responses and daily choices.

Your heart will be filled with song and laughter as you grow up.

Peaceful One… indeed you can be at peace in the midst of difficult circumstances, when your being is saturated with joy!

I bless you on this special day with overflowing joy!

Day of Birth - Undivided (Peace)

One month old - Growing the Fruit (Love)