Infectious Joy!

Infectious Joy!We all “high-function” in life and our relationships when we are full of joy and peace.  The profound and simple strategy of Whatever we focus on gets bigger and bigger and stronger and stronger has the potential to change the story of your life.   Anything you’re not wanting to experience “more of” simply stop looking at it and obsessing over it. Anything you ARE wanting to experience more of….redemptive qualities in your children and spouse, good news, beauty, and hope, look and focus on those things, and you’ll experience a turnaround!We truly are shaped by our thoughtsScripture makes it so clear, and offers a clear map to infectious joy: 4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you (Philippians 4:4-9).Troubling TimesWhat do we do when circumstances and appearances look grim? This is your day to change the story of my life, and encounter peace. If you continue to tell yourself the same story, It’s just a matter of time until there’s another injustice, and life will keep being too serious and there is no fun.  Try some of these practical steps: 1. Remind yourself: I can (and will) find joy in this journey. I will not blame anybody for my current circumstances or disappointments. I’m going to give up trying to change anybody. I refuse to measure other people’s progress.  2. I chose to smile as I imagine the possibilities ahead, even if it isn’t what I first imagined it would be. I give, I consider others, and I sacrifice for others, and therefore discover the art of true giving. It’s more blessed and rewarding to give rather than receive!  3. Listen with patience, listen like a sponge, and absorb those around you, and any troubles they have incurred. Learning to truly listen expresses love, acceptance, and compassion in a way that will turn circumstances around. Everyone loves to feel heard! What do I do to foster infectious joy?Celebrate even when there isn’t a big event! It's important to mark small, daily successes and things “going well”. Even if it’s about getting off work earlier than expected or starting an exercise regime. These are positive events that gain strength and significance when we make time to recognize them with excitement and affection. Celebrate good news together. Search for good news! You will find what you’re looking for. And “match” the excitement and celebration of others.Enjoy listening to God’s voice, and consider developing this skill. Hunches are the hounds of heaven! Every simple step makes a big difference in your relationships. Don’t underestimate what you can do today!Music by lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay. https://www.audreyclub.com/https://www.bobandaudrey.com/ Music by lemonmusicstudio from Pixabay.