A lot of my posts I write for myself. Whether it’s to remember a fond memory, to hold myself accountable, meet a goal or even give myself a pep-talk (selfish, I know)! This post is no different, but I hope it helps you too…
There are a lot of women complaining. Online, at church, at the store; it seems like they are very unhappy. 
We’re tired from the laundry, the cooking and the kids – if only we could get a job. Of course, the women with jobs are tired of the boss, the workload and skimpy paychecks – if only they could stay home. We are all stressed from bills and over commitments. On and on we grumble, “If only, if only…”
It is true that there are things that could make our lives easier, but I have to wonder if an easy life is a happy life. Happiness doesn’t come from having things and it doesn’t come from NOT having these things. And yes, pleasure is pleasing, but not fulfilling.
Last month I read about a popular celebrity from the Bachelor reality tv show who committed suicide. She had fame, money, “love”, sex, beauty, and youth – all a girl could want right? Compare that with Mother Teresa, who was old, weak and poor. One lived a life of luxury, the other misery – one committed suicide and the other praised the Lord all of the days of her life.
So, the next time I start feeling sorry for myself I will remember that happiness is not tied to my health, my status, my money, my family, my age, my looks, my accomplishments. Happiness, real, true, fulling happiness, is the natural condition of those who serve the Lord. We may suffer terribly, but the joy of the Lord is our strength! (Nehemiah 8:10)
How do you help yourself remember the joy of the Lord? Please leave a comment!
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Thank you for this insightful post, Janine. It’s a reminder that true happiness transcends material possessions or circumstances. Serving the Lord and finding joy in our faith can provide the strength and contentment we need, even in life’s challenges.