Each month I am trying to work on a characteristic of God in myself.

Galations 5:22-23

On the other hand, the fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.

For December I was working on joy, but I have to admit I did not get very far. So, I am expanding the study of this quality in scripture into January. In general, I feel like a happy person, but I am subject to bouts of depression usually sprung on by worrying too much. I need to do a whole study on not worrying! For now: joy:

You make known to me the path of life. In your presence is abundant joy; There is happiness at your right hand forever. – Psalm 16:11

First of all, I am happy that I have God’s Word to direct me to the path that leads to Him. What an awesome, caring God He must be to have provided this for us instead of just leaving us in the dark. And second, this is a fallen world. Satan conspires against us constantly to try to bring us the exact opposite of happiness. Or he disguises himself as light and we think we are happy, but we are really sinning. Falling into his trap. I am content knowing that I will achieve real and perfect happiness when I am in the presence of the Lord forever. For now, there are so many blessings that I can take joy in and I can take joy in serving the Lord.

Dear Lord,

Thank you for providing your Word for us so that we know what to do in this fallen world. We know how to get to You and that in itself is something to be so joyful about. Please give me the motivation to stay in Your Word every day so that I will never forget the path to You. Please help me to turn from my sin and help me to see hidden sins that I might not even realize I am doing. Let the Holy Spirit constantly remind me that this is not my true home and true and perfect and eternal happiness is not here, but with You. Allow me to see my blessings and be joyful for them and convict me to serve You more and more. I will take immense joy in that. Thank you Lord. I love you.

In Jesus’ name, Amen!