But let all who take refuge in you rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread your protection over them, that all who love your name may be filled with joy. – Psalm 5:11 (NLT)
Have you noticed how easy it is to not be joyful? Maybe you’re worried if the boy in Chemistry class likes you and you see him talking to another girl and it makes you sad. Or perhaps you don’t get the solo in the choir and you feel so sad. It’s easy to let circumstances determine your happiness. This is bad because you can’t always control your circumstances.
Life isn’t always going to go your way, but you can choose joy in the midst of your circumstances. A good way to do this is by spending time in God’s presence. Do things like reading your Bible. Also, reminding yourself of how good God is can help you change your perspective.
Think of the times he’s protected you or walked with you through difficulty. As you love God and get close to Him, He can be your source of joy. Your life can be filled with joy if you choose to love God and get close to Him. Your circumstances might not always be perfect, but you can choose joy in the middle of what is going on around you.
