Tag Archives: joy

October 14
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“Rejoice 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)

There is no simpler prescription for human joy than the one Paul wrote for the Thessalonian disciples.

As children of God, if we have no reason to rejoice, we aren’t paying attention to all of the wonderful people, places, and things that God has created.

If we have no one for whom to pray other than ourselves, we aren’t paying attention in the places God has stationed us for the purpose of knowing how to pray for others in their distress.

If our hearts lack gratitude, we aren’t paying attention to the blessings we receive without a thought (and without a “thank you”).

When we don’t pay attention, we cheat ourselves of the opportunity to be a dancing light in the darkness; a partner with God in the transformation of a human life; and a source of joy to our heavenly Father.

Take less notice of yourself, and greater notice of the situations and the persons around you with the perspective of God, and your life will become a joyful, holy adventure!  – Luther

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April 10
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“But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.” (1 Samuel 12:24, NIV)


Memory and gratitude are antidotes to many of the maladies that afflict our soul and that steal the joy of living.  These maladies include self-entitlement, greed, a zero-sum view of common resources, and a competitive spirit when cooperation is what is needed.

When we “[remember] what great things [God] has done for [us],” such as giving us the things that money cannot buy (e. g. life, peace, joy, love, security of soul, integrity of mind) — and an abundance of the things money can buy (e. g. food, shelter, clothing, transportation) — it provokes within us an enduring reverence for the Lord, and a burning desire to serve him with faithfulness and enthusiasm.

To count the few things we don’t have — instead of the many blessings we do have — sidetracks us from the path that leads to peace with our heavenly Father.  Remember — and be thankful.  – Luther

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