Finding Joy
The Message In Our Messes

“I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:10-13 (NIV)

Contentment doesn’t need more but wants more.
Complacency needs things to change but doesn’t want them to.

“David said, ‘I’ve been a shepherd, tending sheep for my father. Whenever a lion or bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I’d go after it, knock it down, and rescue the lamb. If it turned on me, I’d grab it by the throat, wring its neck, and kill it. Lion or bear, it made no difference—I killed it. And I’ll do the same to this Philistine pig who is taunting the troops of God-Alive. God, who delivered me from the teeth of the lion and the claws of the bear, will deliver me from this Philistine.’
Saul said, ‘Go. And God help you!’”
1 Samuel 17:34-37 (MSG)

Your past doesn’t define your future, but it can prepare you for your future.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”James 1:2-3 (NIV)

Questions for Reflection:

1) What has God brought me through? How is that helping me determine my trust in Him?
2) What blessing would have been avoided without some of the trials in my life?
3) Who can my trials and journey encourage today?