And yet…… - My God My Everything

I finished reading the book Personality Plus this week and it prompted me to take a serious look at myself. At first I questioned some of the characteristics that were common with the personality type that I was identified with, but after further reflection I knew they were right.

One in particular was that this personality type lacks joy. I have always thought of myself as a happy person but as I slowed down and really looked at how I respond to situations and people, I found that it’s true.

I take life to seriously and my mind is always planning for whatever is next. Anticipating outcomes and preparing for them whether they are positive or negative.

The last few chapters of the book explain that once we are aware of how we respond we can choose to change for the better. The bible encourages us to judge our own conduct (Galatians 6:4) examine ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:28) and be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).

God has provided many reasons to live a joyful life. He has given us a future full of promise and an offer to have a daily relationship with Him. Each new day brings a reason to be joyful. It means that His purpose for us isn’t finished and we have another day of walking in fellowship with Him.

He gave me a verse in Habukkuk 3: 17-18 that showed me I can choose joy every day regardless of the circumstances. It reads:

Though the fig tree does not bud
    and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
    and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
    and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord,
    I will be joyful in God my Savior.

The Message version describes it as;

Though the cherry trees don’t blossom
    and the strawberries don’t ripen,
Though the apples are worm-eaten
    and the wheat fields stunted,
Though the sheep pens are sheepless
    and the cattle barns empty,
I’m singing joyful praise to God.
    I’m turning cartwheels of joy to my Savior God.
Counting on God’s Rule to prevail,
    I take heart and gain strength.

I don’t remember the last time I turned a cartwheel but I did watch my granddaughter do a few and the joy and excitement on her face at having done them was thrilling to watch. I want to have that joy and excitement in my life and I can have it if I choose to trust in God’s control.

Strength and Joy are My dwelling place so the closer to Me you live, the stronger and more joyful you will be. Be joyful in Me, your Savior.

My Prayer

Father, thank you for showing me details about my personality that I didn’t recognize. Help me to change the things I can and live with a joyful heart. A relationship with You is always cause for joy. Help me to remember that You are with me each and every day and that I can find the joy in any situation if I choose to see it. I Love You Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Where does my help come from?

1 Thessalonians 5:18-19 (MSG)

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

Let joy be your continual feast. Make your life a prayer. And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus. (TPT)