As I went on my trip to Thailand, I planned to visit and encourage people who are hurting. These people have been brought out of terrible darkness and are working now with different ministries around Bangkok.
The one thing I did not plan on was that they would show me what the Joy of the Lord is. As I saw their genuine smiles, laughter and light in their eyes, I saw in myself something I didn't know was missing. I lost the Joy of the Lord somewhere along the way. It took a trip around the world for me to realize it was not there.
I had planned this trip to help show God's love to others. God planned this trip for others to show me His Joy.
I am excited for this New Year 2012 - That I may have a fresh start with the Joy of the Lord!
Psalm 51:12 says, "Restore to me the joy of Your salvation..." God can restore our Joy. The funny thing is, many times we don't even know we lost it. Lets take a look at our lives and see where our joy comes from - if you have misplaced God's Joy as I have this past year, then pray Psalm 51 over your life with me: "Lord, restore to me the joy of Your salvation"...
May you find your Joy again during this new year of 2012 -
"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit"...Romans 15:13
Truly remarkable.. I never thought about it until now.. I too see where I have lost God's Joy in times of my life.. all it takes is a little reminding :) P.S. I miss you!!!!!
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