Keeping Your Joy

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6–7

You are under constant spiritual assault whether you realize it or not.

The enemy is constantly prowling looking for opportunities to steal your joy. Jesus said, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. ” (John 10:10)

The Lord gives you a strategy for softening or deflecting the blows when the wicked one seeks to sow fear and doubt into your heart and mind. Through all of scripture, the Lord calls you to rejoice repeatedly to cling to his blessings, to remember all the blessings and benefits the LORD has poured into your life. This attitude of gratitude has the power to keep you knowing in your heart and mind that the LORD is faithful and true. Knowing this will soften and even defeat the fear and doubt which threatens to steal your joy.

Rather than be strangled by anxiety and doubt, in every situation rush to give thanks to God as you ask the Lord for help again. When you pray with thanksgiving THEN the peace which comes from beyond will guard and protect your heart and mind by keeping you abiding in Christ Jesus. How can you not be joyous if you dwell in Christ?

So look for all the incredible blessings in your life, large and small. Give thanks for whatever is right, noble, lovely, admirable or true. Think about whatever is cool and praiseworthy. Focusing on these will help you keep your joy.

Do you keep track of all the blessings as much as you track the problems? What blessings, simple or big, have you received just today?