“This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” ~ Psalm 118:24 NIV
JOY [joi] -noun
- the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation: She felt the joy of seeing her son’s success.
- a source or cause of keen pleasure or delight; something or someone greatly valued or appreciated: Her prose style is a pure joy.
- the expression or display of glad feeling; festive gaiety.
- a state of happiness or felicity.
We all hate to do self-evaluating…especially when it comes to our attitude. However, our response to something (good or bad) is how most people will remember and think of us (good or bad). How do others see you? How do you make them “feel”? Does your joy shine?
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” ~ Philippians 4:4 NIV
This last week I had the unfortunate time of being in a little fender-bender in the Wal-Mart parking lot. Thankfully, for my insurance company, it was not my fault (whew!). I could tell from the other driver that she was awfully (and I mean AWFULLY sorry). I quickly realized she didn’t know what to say, except things like “I’m sorry”, “I obviously didn’t see you”, “Are you okay?”, “Oh, my goodness”, etc. I could have said and reacted to this event in a way that would have made things even worse. However, after we exchanged information for insurance purposes, and after I could still see she was still distraught over the entire situation, I reached out in that parking lot and gave this lady a comforting hug – yes, a hug. She wasn’t hurt, I wasn’t hurt — all that was hurt was plastic and metal.
“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.” ~ Psalm 5:11 NIV
As a young man, I had the sincere pleasure of being mentored by a wonderful person. His name is Richard Black. I have many fond memories of being with Richard — at his home, on the stage and in his truck. I recall many times when he would get cut off by another driver or get stuck at traffic light that seemed like it would never change. His reaction, “I’m not gonna let it steal my joy!” Wow, simple words that go a long, long way.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” ~ Philippians 4:4 NIV
Generally, I’m a fairly even keel personality. Meaning, the person I am at 2:00 PM is the same person at 2:00 AM. Unless I’ve had a really, really tough day or situation occur, I’m a “great guy” all day long. How can this be? It’s on purpose. I make purposed strides to smile, greet others, make them welcome, hear their ideas and encourage everyone to be a “part of the team”. As an encourager and creative thinker, I personally feed off positive vibes and energy. This type of experience can not be achieved by being negative and “snappy”. However, being negative and critical are not the same (this is for another blog, later).
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV
The stuff of life (vehicles, homes, name-brand clothing, personal electronics, etc.) all give temporary joy. Invest in those things important and you will have joy with longevity. Are you someone who needs to get a “see yourself” shine?! Has your shine lost its luster?! And, are you as Damon Wayon’s character in the movie MAJOR PAYNE exclaimed, “[Somebody’s] got a little attitudinal problem and needs some re-adjustin'”? If so, do a little self-evaluating in hopes you get a “see yourself” shine!
“I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD.'” ~ Psalm 122:1 NIV
“The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” ~ Psalm 126:3 NIV
“Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling place.” ~ 1 Chronicles 16:27 NIV
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” ~ Romans 15:13 NIV
Luke Gambill 