The concept of joy being available despite circumstances probably isn't new to anyone who reads this blog. We all want it to be true and maybe do feel like it is, depending on how close we are to God and aware of His Presence. I think that there was one key line in this entry:"Instead, concentrate on staying in communication with Me."
I don't feel like I have much else to say on this topic, that pretty much says it all. We are too human and powerless to make ourselves joyful no matter the situation, especially because it is a matter of the heart, where God has control. The only way to stay in continuous joy - not happiness, as I'm sure you know - is to stay in communication with our Father, who gives us this joy, His joy. Thanking Him constantly, prayfully giving concerns over to Him, asking for His Peace, and continuing to whisper to Him, "I trust You," will all produce to joy that only Jesus can deliver. And He will deliver!
"It is always true that an encounter with God brings wonderment and awe!" A.W. Tozer - I'm sure joy is in there too. :) How awesome for us to start looking to encounter God all the time!
Love you all.
