RESPOND WITH JOY

…Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength! – Nehemiah 8:10 (NLT)

REFERENCE
Nehemiah 8:10 (NLT)

The biggest part of every battle, setback, crisis, delayed answers, or whatever challenge you are presently dealing with is psychological warfare. This is an area the devil thrives the most; his plan is to manipulate your mind to the point where you lose your peace of mind, as well as your hope and confidence in God.

However, you can always beat the devil at his game. How? By your response of JOY! Our text clearly reveals that the joy of the LORD is your strength; and you need strength to withstand and soar above the pressures of life.

Joy is a fruit of the Spirit that is already resident within you as a believer; therefore, you have to make a deliberate effort to release it over situations and circumstances. To respond with joy means, you have to engage in only things that will keep you in high spirits. These would include: rejoicing, giving thanks to God for His privileges, maintaining a positive attitude, making melody in your heart, and resting in God.

When you do these, it shows that you have an inner source of strength and satisfaction, independent of circumstances. It confuses the devil and says to him that his strategy isn’t working. Also, it makes the challenge lighter or smaller than it looks; keeps your spirit hopeful, and expresses super faith in God. Most of all, it gives you the strength to face another day until your change comes.

Responding with joy in challenging times may not be easy, but it is the biblical way to go! Don’t get all fleshy by complaining and grumbling. Do the opposite of what your flesh wants. God does not expect you to hang your head like an unbeliever who has no hope; He expects you to stay praiseful. Stay thankful. Stay expectant. Stay hopeful. Stay trusting and stay faith-filled, because, all things will ultimately work together for your good.

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