Finding Joy In Our New Life
Saturday January 28, 2017
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (James 1:2-4 NKJV)
Life in recovery can be challenging at times. We have joy in the fact that we are no longer in the pit of our addiction but, we are now treading waters that are unfamiliar to us. People around us are encouraging us to stay the course but we are unsure, and even fearful, of our new environment. We may have been “experts” in coping with our dysfunctional lifestyle but are now “newbies” in coping with life in recovery. Thankfully, God has promised to be with us in our transition process.
Preserve me, O God, for in You I put my trust. You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 16:1,11 NKJV)
The transition from living for self-fulfillment to living life for the glory of God is a testing of our will. Is there truly joy in walking in the ways of God? Sometimes we can say a definite “yes” as we experience joy in having made good decisions. Other times we find ourselves in a battle with our own will. God called us out of darkness and invited us to walk in the light of His presence. Like any child learning to walk we may stumble as we move forward but, like any good Father, God will hold on to our hand. God rejoices with us when we walk steadily forward and is willing to support us when we stumble and fall. God is always calling us to fullness of joy in Him.
How happy are the people who know the sound of joy! They walk in the light of Your face, O Lord. They are full of joy in Your name all day long. And by being right with You, they are honored. (Psalm 89:15-16 NLV)
Prayer – Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing joy into my life. Help me to resist the evil one who wants to steal, kill, and destroy the life you have given me. Help me to recognize joy even during challenging times and hold tightly to your hand through it all. AMEN
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