Finding Joy

A few weeks ago, I was texting with one of my aunts about learning to find JOY IN THE PAIN. Not after the pain has subsided...DURING it. Her words:

"You get to know God most clearly and sweetly in the pain. Pain leads to joy."

It's easy to find joy after the trial is over with. But what does it look like to really FIND JOY in the midst of the trial? In the middle of confusion and heartbreak. In the thick of waiting.

"Finding joy in the waiting" is something I've always heard....something I knew to strive for...but the actual act of finding joy? I'd never really thought about it.

As I bounced these thoughts around to my friend Hope, it sort of clicked. Being thankful for all that The Lord has ALREADY done is what produces joy. When you're reminding yourself of all the many blessings that He's already given and thanking Him for His goodness, it changes your perspective. That is when you can truly "consider it pure joy when facing trials" (James 1:2).

Imagine the change in our posture towards the Lord if we came to him with thanksgiving instead of doubt. If we have came to him with gratitude instead of bitterness. What if we really believed that He enjoys giving us good things and has the best plans for us?

HE WANTS GOOD THINGS FOR HIS CHILDREN.

I don't know what season of life you're in. You may be in a time of waiting, pain, or frustration. Or maybe you're on the other side of the trial! I hope and pray that you always remember the Lord's graciousness. Remember what He's done, is doing, and WILL DO. He is constantly at work within you.