Joy Reminders

I've been thinking a lot lately about Joy and Happiness, and the difference between the two. A lot of times I think people mix them up, and even though they are similar, they are also vastly different. Happiness and sadness are emotions. They are temporary and easily changed...fickle, if you will. They are also completely dependent on our circumstances. But joy, is permanent and not dependent on our circumstances at all. As Christians, we have a Source of joy that is there for us always. We can choose to accept it or decline it, but that decision is completely ours. Joy is a product of trust. If we trust our Father, we have joy. If we don't, there is no joy.  It amazes me that in the midst of devastating trials and sadness, we have a joy inside that gives us strength to smile through the pain, because we know that this life is only temporary and there is so much greatness ahead. Christians go through tough times, the same as everyone else does. We still feel sadness, despair, frustration, mistrust, and all other emotions that steal smiles off people's faces. But what we have that others don't, is a relationship with One who sacrificed His Son on the cross to save us. Nothing we can go through in this life can steal that away. Our Father is so good, that He often sends us things to make us happy in order to remind us of the joy that is within us.

It might be a piece of His creation that inspires awe and amazement of His power.

It might be a four month old puppy that wants to lick you to death. 

It might be his amazing art work that just stuns you every time you see it. 

OR

MAYBE...

it's

YOU. 

Not for yourself, but for others. Maybe the smile you have on your face today, will remind another of the reason they can have joy in their heart today.