Joy

Go your way...and be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10

It's taken me most of my adulthood to finally enjoy "my life" rather than coveting someone else's. I have especially been thinking about this as some of our best friends'/neighbors' have moved to different states for work or to be closer to family .  It sounds a bit corny, but I was looking at all of the photos of my family and friends that came scrolling by on Apple TV the other night and couldn't help but feel blessed and overwhelmed.  There are lots of smiles, great times, and lots of love captured by each photograph.  

God wants each of us to enjoy the life He has given us here on this earth. Enjoying life does not mean that something exciting is happening at all times, it just means you enjoy the simple, everyday things. Too many people wish their days away until their next vacation or adventure and then as a result, miss out on the many blessings that God has in store for them in the process.

Let's face it, most of life is rather ordinary, but each of us is equipped supernaturally to enjoy life in an extraordinary way.  We should enjoy our lives to the fullest and be a witness to the power and joy from God that is available to everybody.

Slow Down

"I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me-and I in him-bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing."  -Jesus, John 15:5

Having some time off from work and away from the usual hustle and bustle of my normal routine has been wonderful and relaxing. It has also made me realize that no matter how busy I have been over the past year, I am still standing despite suffering the loss of my mom in August.  Coming back to work a few months ago was very difficult, but my work became a distraction of sorts to the pain I was feeling inside.  I tried to stay busy to keep my mind off of things and unfortunately, my Spiritual life suffered because of it... 

God wants each of us to take the time to be still in his Presence so that he can strengthen us. Not just at Christmas time or during a vacation, but every single day.  When we allow God to enter our lives in such a profound way, we will actually do less but accomplish more.

As we prepare for the new year, let's plan to walk closer with God, depending on his strength and trusting him in every situation, every single day.

We can live in peace by walking in the light of his Presence!