The ARRIVAL ~ A Christmas Devotional - Day 21
As we gather together this Christmas season, our hearts can reflect the words of Psalm 16:9. The JOY of Christmas isn’t just a fleeting feeling; it’s a deep, uncontainable JOY that bursts forth in praise and celebration of the Savior born to us. Just like the psalmist, our hearts and souls can "explode with JOY," for the glory of God is revealed in the birth of Jesus. Christmas is a time when we experience JOY in the presence of loved ones, the JOY of giving, and the JOY of worship. As we spend time with family and friends, we are reminded of the greatest gift we’ve ever received: the gift of Jesus Christ. His birth brings light into our lives, bringing security and rest to our souls. Let this season fill you with JOY that overflows, a JOY rooted in the hope and peace Jesus brings. Even as we celebrate with excitement and laughter, may we find deep rest in the assurance that God is with us. Just as our bodies rest secure in His presence, let our hearts be at peace, knowing that the Savior is here. This Christmas, let our hearts “explode with JOY”—a childlike joy that radiates His glory and fills every moment with the belief and wonder of His love. Prayer ~ Dear Lord, thank You for the gift of Jesus, the source of our JOY and peace. As we celebrate His birth, fill our hearts with a childlike JOY that can’t be contained. Help us to share that JOY with those around us and to rest securely in Your love. Let this Christmas be a reminder of the glory You have revealed in sending Your Son, and may we reflect that JOY in all we do. ~ Amen
My Vision, Jesus's Way Week 50
Always be filled with joy in the Lord. I will say it again. Be filled with joy. ~ Philippians 4:4 Some verses whisper. This one shouts, in the happiest way possible. Paul doesn’t say “rejoice when things make sense” or “choose joy when life finally chills out.” He says always. Every day. Every season. Every plot twist. Why? Because our joy isn’t built on shifting circumstances, it’s rooted in a God who doesn’t change. And here’s the fun part: God’s joy isn’t stiff or serious. It shows up in everyday moments that make you stop and smile. Maybe it’s: That random song that comes on at exactly the right time. A perfectly timed rainbow when you needed a reminder that God sees you. A friend texting you a meme that makes you snort-laugh in a public place. A quiet moment with your coffee where you just know God is near. Joy isn’t pretend happiness. It’s that deep, steady reassurance that God is for you, with you, and working in ways you can’t always see. And sometimes… joy looks like dancing in your kitchen for no reason, except that God is good and you’re still here. Three Actionable Steps to Live This Out This Week: 1. Start Your Day With a Joy Check-In - Before you touch your phone, take 30 seconds and say: “Lord, fill me with Your joy today, Your kind of joy, the unshakeable kind.” Invite Him in before the schedule, before the noise, before the stress. 2. Notice One “Joy Moment” Every Day - Keep your eyes open for God’s fingerprints—big or small. A laugh, a blessing, a good conversation, a moment of peace. Write it down or snap a photo. Train your heart to spot God’s goodness. 3. Spread Joy On Purpose - Joy multiplies when shared. Send an encouraging text. Compliment someone. Hold the door. Leave a kind note. Do one intentional “joy action” each day. It doesn’t have to be huge, just sincere. Dear Lord ~ Thank You for the gift of Your joy, a joy that steadies, strengthens, and lifts us. Teach us to rejoice in every season, not because life is perfect but because You are faithful. Open our eyes to moments of joy this week, and help us share that joy with others. Fill our hearts, renew our spirits, and remind us daily that true joy is found in You. ~ Amen.
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