“Joy is the settled assurance that God is in control of every detail in my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything will be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things.”
– from Choose Joy by Kay Warren
When my oldest daughter was in middle school, she would start complaining about going to school as soon as her feet hit the floor in the morning. Her complaints continued throughout the entire twenty-five-minute commute. Without fail, as we’d pull into the “Hug and Go” line to drop her off, my last words to her were always “Abby, choose joy!” She hated hearing that every morning. Instead of lifting her spirits, I think I just gave her one more thing to complain about: me.
I learned a few years ago a wonderful definition of JOY while reading Kay Warren’s book, Choose Joy. It’s what I wish for my children every day and for you as we say good-bye to 2017 and move into the new year.
Kay’s understanding of joy: “The settled assurance that God is in control of every detail in my life, the quiet confidence that ultimately everything will be all right, and the determined choice to praise God in all things.”
I believe this is the most brilliant definition of JOY I’ve ever heard or read. It’s complex yet simple, challenging yet comforting, and enthusiastically encouraging!
The reason joy is complex is because it goes against our human nature to give up control and let someone, let alone a God we can’t reach out and touch, be in charge of our life. But at the same time, knowing God is in control of every detail gives us peace and joy, because we can let go and let Him call the shots.
Joy is also challenging because our culture teaches us that our confidence should come from our accomplishments. But when we strive for confidence in our own strength, our efforts rarely produce joy. Joy comes when God meets us in our real weaknesses and comforts us with His joy that surpasses all understanding.
And lastly, the joy of the Lord is encouraging because when we’re joyful, we experience His tangible presence. Jesus’ holy presence is energizing because it lifts us out of the mundane and turns our eyes to believe all things are possible. Living intimately with Jesus causes our soul to sing praises because joy is available at all times.
I’m so grateful for Kay’s insights. As a mother who has endured incredible heartache and loss, I know that if she can choose joy, then we can too.
Yes, choose joy today wherever you go, whatever you do, and no matter how you feel. Complaining will only drag you down while joy will lift your spirits high.
Be assured that God is in control of every detail. Be confident in His strength and power to guide you. Praise Him every step of the way, and JOY will follow.
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