by Charles R. Swindoll
In my words, the apostle Paul would tell us that joy isn't fickle; it doesn't need a lot of things to keep it smiling. Joy is deep and consistent—the oil that reduces the friction of life.
Well, we know what joy is, but how do we get it and keep it? Once again, it's the attitude of our mind. Our minds can be kept free of anxiety as we dump the load of our cares on the Lord in prayer. By getting rid of the stuff that drags us down, we create space for joy to take its place.
Think of it like this: Circumstances occur that could easily crush us. They may originate on the job or at home or even during the weekend when we are relaxing. Unexpectedly they come. Immediately we have a choice to make . . . an attitude choice. We can hand the circumstance to God and ask Him to take control, or we can roll up our mental sleeves and slug it out. Joy awaits our decision. Peace replaces panic and joy moves into action.
Deliberately choose to give your "stuff" to God the moment it happens.
Reprinted by permission. Day by Day, Charles Swindoll, July 2005, Thomas Nelson, inc., Nashville, Tennessee. All rights reserved. Purchase "Day by Day" here.