Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances …

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Paul’s words of encouragement can be difficult to follow. It’s hard to rejoice after hearing a scary diagnosis. How can we sing for joy when loneliness engulfs us? What can we be joyful about when trouble overwhelms us? We can use the word JOY to help us refocus.

“J” reminds us that JESUS is always faithful. We rejoice in His constant love and care.

“O” helps us recall that our mission is to care for OTHERS. When we use our God-given talents to help others, we can rejoice in being able to do so.

“Y” points to YOU as God’s dear child. He has given you opportunities to serve Him.

When we are troubled, we can find J-O-Y in looking up to the Lord and reaching out to others.

Donna Bobb
Carmel, IN

Loving Father, help me rejoice in Your love as I serve others. Amen.

Reflect: Gather reminders of things that bring you JOY.

Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 and Psalm 90:14