While working with recycling Christmas cards for 7 nursing homes (about 450) I found one sent to me by Dom and Kristen Lindner that had this Scripture, Psalm 126:3 on the front: ‘The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.’ It seemed an appropriate topic for today’s column.

JOY is defined as a profound and stable sense of happiness and contentment rooted in one’s relationship with God. REJOICE is the action to feel or show great joy or delight.

In these uncertain times, we need all the help we can get to be able to ‘ride the storm.’

I found many good Scriptures to encourage us when we may get anxious about the near future. There were many times our forefathers experienced uncertainties where they were directed as to how to react. The following lists a few….

Proverbs 16:11…You (God) make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (So, true joy is found in His presence—not based on circumstances.)

Nehemiah 8:10…(To the Israelites: Go your way, eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is Holy to our Lord, And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Romans 15 :13… May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (This is a prayer of encouragement, connecting faith, joy, and peace).

John 15:11… These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. (Joy is based on eternal hope.)

Galatians 5:22-23… The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law. (Through the Spirit, we are to find joy in ALL circumstances.)

Ecclesiastes 9:7… Go, eat your bread with joy, and…with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do. (We are to enjoy the simple things in life. In a busy life, we often overlook these small moments that allows us to honor God and find strength.)

A shorter writing this time but one of the most important for these times. I know of no other successful way to experience joy in challenging times that we are living in.

Clip, save, and reread often! May God bless you this week.