Roger Kruse, an OMS (One Mission Society) missionary to India, recently shared in one of our September Sunday services that there is a distinct difference between joy and happiness.  Joy comes from God and happiness is dependent upon one’s circumstances in this life.

 Roger mentioned Seven Keys to Finding Joy in life’s journey.  I woulds like to take a moment to share these with you!

1.  Stop with the complaining and grumbling.  Roger quoted writer, Thoreau as saying, “most people live lives in great desperation”.  Let us learn to be intentional with thanksgiving and gratitude.  Lack of thankfulness is not healthy!
2. Share God’s gifts.  Be a giver not just a receiver.  Be a cheerful giver as described in II Corinthians 9:7.
3. Learn to serve in God’s kingdom.  It is not just about knowing but it is about doing and serving.  When we obey His commands, there will be joy (John 14:15, 21).
4. Tell your story.  Be His witness and tell your story of God’s amazing grace that saved and rescued you.
5. Trust God’s purpose for your life.    Believe God’s promises to you, such as, “we know that for those who love God all things work together for good…” (Romans 8:28).
6. Rest in God’s love and grace.  God’s purpose and will for you are rooted in His amazing love for you!  “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.’ (John 3:16)
7. Sing God’s praises.  Lift up your voice in thanksgiving and praise!  “Singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”  (Colossians 3;16).

Have you ever wondered how the great Apostle Paul and Silas, after having been attacked by a violent crowd, then publicly beaten with rods  with “many blows”, than placed in a prison with their legs and hands bound, could sing hymns to God?  They gave thanks and praise to God even after being beaten and imprisoned (See Acts 16:22-25).  Their joy no longer was dependent on the outward circumstances.  They had come to realize the difference between the joy of being right with God and happiness which is dependent totally on ones circumstances.

Discover this joy that can be found in a right relationship with God. through His Son, Jesus Christ Our Lord (II Corinthians 5:21).

“The joy of the Lord is our strength” (Nehemiah 8:10).

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice”  (Philippians 4:4).