Joy is a Choice

 Always be joyful and never stop praying.  Whatever happens, keep thanking God because of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 CEV

The other day, I was reminded of how easy it is to fall into the world’s way of thinking that everything should work out just the way I want it to. As a planner, I constantly make schedules and create routines that I would prefer to stay just the way I’ve made them, but the truth is, life happens, and they are often interrupted.

My washer and dryer had served their purpose, and it was time to replace them. After shopping around, we found a new set that would work great, but it would require some remodeling in the laundry closet. A delivery date was set, which gave my husband a timeline to make the necessary adjustments. Some demolition, new framing, drywall, and paint would be required, but those changes were right up my husband’s alley. Given the time frame, he would have to work on the project in the evenings to have it ready in time.

On the last day of the remodel, we were notified that the washer and dryer were delayed, and it would be another week before they arrived. Instantly, I felt frustration and wanted to lash out. But God asked me if I wanted to let this small inconvenience steal my joy. I had a choice to make. While I was not in control of when they would arrive, I was in complete control of how I would respond.

Life happens. Delays happen. Things way more important than a delayed delivery of a washer and dryer happen, and with each event, we have the choice of choosing joy.

Today’s passage reminds us to rejoice always, to pray continually, and to give thanks in all circumstances. That may seem like a tall order when real hard things happen, like loss, health issues, marriage problems, financial issues, and family matters. But in each of those circumstances, we have the opportunity to turn to God and ask for His perspective. He knows all and sees all. He is fully aware of every moment of our lives now and through eternity.

I believe that the small, insignificant setbacks like my washer and dryer are opportunities to put God’s Word into practice and choose joy. Moments like these will prepare my heart, mind, and soul for times when real issues arise, and then when they do, I will already be in the habit of choosing joy.