Wow, it is amazing how time goes by. We are in the final week of our fast. This week will will focus on giving God all of ourselves through praise and worship. I have to say it has been an interesting 6 weeks, and I think all of us can agree on that! Even the ones who I have talked to that are coming along side of the powell's and the marino's through this fast can say it has been a challenge and a blessing!
To jump start the week, I would like to focus on leaving behind our sufferings and turn our focus on the joy that God wants to fill our hearts with. Ready? I am! So, start by taking a deep breath in and think of the word joy. How do you picture it? Is it family, hanging out with friends, laughter, wrestling with your spouse, being at the beach, not being at work? For me, Joy means Jesus Over You (JOY). When we allow Jesus to take full control over us, we can experience the greatest joy!
Hebrews 12:1-3
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the JOY set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition form sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart"
I am not sure about you guys, but this makes my heart smile, and what a verse to read coming upon Easter. He did this so I would not grow weary or lose heart. Wow, it makes me think of how selfish and unappreciative I am sometimes! Lord, forgive me. He paid the ultimate gift for me - to bring me JOY, perseverance, and a strong heart. This week let us give back to Him what he has given to us! Everything you can think of that you have, give it back to Jesus - the One who owns it all anyway. He just gave it to us to 'bring us more joy'. Celebrate with me if you will - Let us worship the God of truth, JOY, love, and every good thing you can think of. Give ourselves to Him. It is time - release it all and gain the JOY He wants us to have!
Philippians 2:1-2
"If you have any encouragement form being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my JOY complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose."
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