“This is something no one can take away from you.”
That’s what my former boss said to me 15 years ago when he encouraged me to go back to college and finish my degree. Like most of my classmates, I started my “normal” college career the fall after we graduated from high school. Then, life happened. I slacked off, I transferred schools, I worked instead of studying, I had a baby…you get it. After 13 years, I finally finished! It was the biggest gift I gave myself. It took courage, strength and dedication. The sense of accomplishment and JOY I felt was amazing.
The older I get and the more my wants and needs change, I’ve discovered there is something else people can’t take away from you — JOY!
In today’s world, it’s extremely hard to focus on joy when there is so much crime, hatred, hurt and destruction.
What is something that bring you joy? I’ll wait while you stop and think about it. Go ahead and write them down, too!
For me it’s:
- The Friday’s when my daughter comes back from her dad’s house.
- Reading scripture and listening to worship music.
- Talking to family and friends.
- Taking care of my neighbors.
- Serving at church.
- Playing with puppies.
- My mom’s homemade chicken noodle soup.
I could keep going on and on.
While reading today’s devotional, I came across John 16:22 that talks about joy. In this passage, Jesus, in a roundabout way, tells the disciples that He’s leaving them (before they knew He was going to be crucified) but He will return. While the disciples will be sad He’s gone, they will be overcome with JOY upon His return.
He compares this to “a woman suffering the pains of labor. When her child is born, her anguish gives way to joy because she has brought a new baby into the world.” – John 16:21.
Friends — what I’m trying to say is the power of the Holy Spirit consumes me and fills me with joy. I could be depressed about all the not so fun things in the world, my singleness, etc., but I’m not. When I spend time focusing on God, there’s is a sense of joy and a sense of peace I feel when I focus my attention on Him.
If you’re facing difficulty in your life right now, I encourage you to turn to God to help you find JOY. If there is anything I can do to help you along your journey, let me know.
Aunt Bubba
P.S. I made the image with the scripture above, so if you want a copy of it, shoot me an email at dearauntbubba@gmail.com and I’ll send you a JPG.
Bubba & Co. 
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