Choose To Look For Joy

“Shoulda… Woulda… Coulda…” Is that how you feel too, as you are looking back over 2010?

Why do we see more clearly as we look in our rear-view mirror? Seeing all the mistakes of what we did, or mistakes of not doing what our heart told us to do.

I could dwell on the negative, because there are many places I failed this past year, but I once heard someone say,
“Giving your blessings as much thought as you give your worries will make you happier”.

With God’s help, I choose to count my blessings. They are far more in number than my mistakes anyway.

Do I always recognize a blessing? No, I’m sorry to say that I don’t. There are so many blessings that I take for granted.

Think about it…do we remember to thank Him for the air that we breathe and for the sunshine (or rain)?

…For each new day and the ability to get out of bed to enjoy it.

…For His protection guarding us from danger.

…For a warm house, food to eat and money to pay our bills.

…For friends and family…

Most important of all, to thank Him for His love and mercy making it possible for you and me to be His children.

…and oh what a sweet blessing it is to sit in His presence as we pray and talk with Him, knowing that we have nothing to fear.

God will take care of us for He is in control.

Barbara Johnson wrote, “Deliberately choose to look for joy in every step of your journey through life and to share it with others. When you do, you will be blessed with happiness no matter what your circumstances are.”

I pray that this year brings you into a deeper, more personal relationship with Jesus. My heart’s desire is to be less distracted and to spend more time in prayer and studying His Word.

2011 is a time of new challenges and opportunity. May God direct our paths as we follow Him in obedience.

Love and Prayers,
Carolyn