J. O. Y.

 Counting it all faith.  “JOY”

(James 1:2-3 Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.)

Having faith through the tests and trials is hard, but if you look back through the years there will be tears of joy. While this verse can be hard to live out, it’s a process of knowing that His faithfulness is greater than anything. If we can seek Him for direction, and hear a still small voice that reminds us to trust His plan, and know He loves us. That in itself is worth walking through the process and knowing what we can expect from counting it all joy. All too often the enemy is a joy robber and brings pain, discouragement and confusion for the ultimate plan God has set in motion. Yet, His Precious Word reminds us, just count it all joy. 

Some Bible scholars say the word ‘joy’ appears 430 times in the Bible, yet others say it shows up 224 times. No matter how many times, it all means the same thing; the state of being happy, finding great pleasure or elation. We all need a little joy in our lives; as of lately hard times have hit so many and it’s hard to rise above. Yet, God’s love and mercy is always with you. His JOY is with you. Knowing His will and plan for your life is always the most powerful thing. Seek Him while He is near, seek Him while He can be found. Trust Him when you need it most. Be encouraged today by His Word and His love. 

He loves you.