SEEK AUTHENTIC JOY
There is one thing that everyone wants- and that is joy! We all say that we want to be happy, when what we really want is joy. Happiness is for the moment with the given situation. Joy is a state of mind, heart and being that we can carry with us anywhere to, and in any situation.
Have you ever wanted something or wanted to go somewhere really badly? You felt as if once I get ____ or go to ____, I will be so happy. I can’t wait until God gives me this new job or new car, etc… Only to find out that once you get it, it’s not what you expected that it would be or the direct happiness from it is short lived. Next we’re on to the next thing or goal that we desire. Complaining about the other thing that is slightly less annoying than the problem just solved.
Joy is different. Joy is in your belly. It is that appreciation and gratitude that resounds inside. It’s that steady contentment that never goes away no matter how much the people at work annoy you or whatever disappointments may come.
In order to get that real joy, authentic joy we have to look to God when living our lives. A relationship with God allows us to realize that there is someone who is taking care of us and has our back in any situation. A relationship with God will lead us to follow His direction and go after what is good for us.
A relationship with God gives us peace. Peace in knowing that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing and have what we are supposed to have. Peace is a prerequisite to joy. We can have happy moments without peace, but we cannot have sustained joy without having peace in knowing that we are on a path that will have eternal meaning vs. a short lived celebration. Only God can provide authentic joy that lasts forever.
P.S. Before you make any more goals, pray to God to ensure that what you think is best for you truly is.
