Years ago, there was a television commercial about a bath product that centered around a woman who, overwhelmed by her circumstances suddenly blurted out “Calgon take me away!” This product was supposed to lift your spirits while you soaked in the bathtub. What is interesting to note about the commercial is that despite everything that was screaming for the woman’s attention, she took time to get away and soak in the tub.
Like the woman in the commercial, when you find yourself inundated by life, it is critical to your physical and spiritual well-being to step away with God. You cannot afford to allow the hustle and bustle of life to crowd out your time with God. Psalm 16:11 says, “In thy presence is fulness of joy.” Joy is not to be confused with happiness. Happiness is an emotion that is dependent upon circumstances. Joy on the other hand is not contingent upon favorable conditions. Joy is both an internal state of being and an empowerment that is based on relationship with God.
I have learned that you can experience joy even in the midst of life’s most daunting challenges. John 16:22 says, “Your joy no man taketh from you.” God is the source and giver of joy. You can be joyful during dark seasons because your hope and confidence rests in God alone, not what you are experiencing. Faith in God enables you to look beyond your present circumstances. Your faith rests in knowing that God is working all things out for your good (Romans 8:28).
If you are not careful, busy schedules and circumstances will leave God on the back burner. God longs for and takes great delight being with you. Dedicate time with God on a daily basis to maintain your joy.
While some things are out of your control, you can choose how you respond to them. The Bible says give thanks “in” everything (I Thessalonians 5:18). This verse implies being joyful is a choice. Therefore, joy must be cultivated with daily prayer and reading and studying the Bible. While you may not be happy about your present situation, your now will not last forever. Remember, this too shall pass. You can be joyful even in the face of adverse circumstances not because you are going through, but because you are coming out victorious!
Until next time…Be blessed!
Rev. Cynthia Jackson, Rhema Inspirations
Rev. Cynthia Jackson is the administrator of the Rhema4U Blog and Innovations Ministries Director. Rev. Jackson is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was licensed and ordained under the tutelage of Bishop David G. Evans. She is an associate minister at Bethany Baptist Church located in Lindenwold, New Jersey. Rev. Jackson founded Innovations Ministries in 2001. Innovations Ministries provides dynamic and innovative programs and services for individuals and families dealing with various health-related issues. She is a gifted teacher, preacher, conference speaker and writer. God has anointed Rev. Jackson to be a spiritual midwife with a passion to empower others to birth God's vision for their lives. Rev. Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Management from Eastern University, a Master of Science Degree in Health Administration from Saint Joseph's University and a Master of Science Degree in Christian Counseling from Cairn University.
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