Choose joy
By Larry Platner
Day 18
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. NLT
As you face the everyday realities of change you can focus on the pain, struggles and weariness of change or choose joy. To do so involves recalibrating your heart and rewiring your mindset. You choose to see your realities through the redemptive lens of God’s grace and kindness and the assurance of his faithfulness to you.
God will not allow any experience in your life to be wasted as he has promised that “all things work together for good” (Romans 8:28). Rather than dwelling on what you have lost or what is difficult look instead to the opportunities presented in your changing situation.
Jesus as he traveled and ministered to others was constantly experiencing change. He would seek to withdraw from the crowds, yet they would pursue him and rather than seeing it as a hindrance he saw it as an opportunity to minister. As he faced the cross he set his heart and mind on the joy of the resurrection (Hebrews 12:2). In your trying circumstances of change, ask Jesus to reveal to you the opportunities presented by your change, reflect on what lies ahead. Choose Jesus and choose joy.
What is your habitual response to the difficulties of change? How might you remind yourself to look for opportunities presented by your change and choose joy instead?
