How to Begin Each Day with Joy

Without love, nothing else matters.

Scripture:  “Cast your cares on the Lord, for he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7

These cares can be anything that have us worried or stressed.  This is a reminder that we are human, and our abilities and strengths are limited.

However, we do have a loving Father waiting for us to trust him; he wants to lift those heavy burdens from us.  He’s waiting for us to ask.

START EACH DAY WITH A GRATEFUL HEART

As women our lives are busy with everything from caring for the home and the children to working in our career field and handling extracurricular activities.

You can have joy and happiness in all these things, but is a difference between joy and happiness?

Yes, there is a difference; we use the words interchangeably, but they are not the same. We all want to be happy and there is nothing wrong with that idea. But to have joy is far better, because of joy, you can be triumphal in the toughest of times.

What is Joy?
  • Joy is spiritual and is not based on how you feel at the moment.
  • Joy can be found in every circumstance we face, even difficulties.
  • Joy is inward contentment.
  • Peace like a river.
What is Happiness?
  • Happiness is dependent on circumstances.
  • Happiness is temporary – here for the moment.
  • Happiness is more self-centered.

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A Time of Reflection

We give a lot of attention to looking good, getting toned and ready for whatever joys the summer will bring.  Feeling good about life’s adventures.

While we are getting the physical body in top shape, let’s get this spiritual body in shape, as well.  We want to be well-developed on the inside and outside.

When the world sees us, they should see the inward beauty, just as they see the outward beauty.

How to Make the Inward Beauty Shine!

Living your life with good moral character will allow your inward beauty to shine. But you must engage the Fruit of the Spirit to be effective. They are:

  • Love
  • Peace
  • Joy
  • Patience
  • Kindness
  • Goodness
  • faithfulness
  • Gentleness
  • Self-Control

Without love, the other fruit is irrelevant.

A Time for Nurturing

As women we have a higher expectation of our ourselves than men have of themselves and with this expectation, we often find ourselves being busy and missing out on the importance of enjoying life.

It’s not good to just exist, we must learn to live, laugh and love. There is much to do in this space we have called life.  Let us learn to enjoy every day that we have been so blessed to see.  Life is short, let us not take it for granted!!!  

If we want to keep my sanity, we must take time for ourselves.  “Me Time” is good for our soul.  How to find time to renew, refresh and rejuvenate ourselves?  Well, keep reading to find out!

Self-care
  • Have a song or quote in your heart; one that is meaningful to you.
  • Take walks to clear your mind and breathe in fresh air.
  • Be thankful and remember that God allowed you to see this day, make a plan to enjoy it.
  • Have a Spa Day.
  • Take frequent breaks from the mundane.

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  PREPARE YOUR MIND FOR A GREAT TOMORROW

What are some ways that you find joy? If you have a rough or troublesome day, how do you overcome it?  Do you have a special song, quote or scripture that soothes your heart and mind? Feel free to share.