Romans 12:12 “Base your happiness on your hope in Christ.
When trials come endure them patiently, steadfastly maintain the habit of
prayer.”
Tuesday greetings~
What makes you happy? I used to say that I was happiest
when my chickies were in the nest. My definition has broadened,
however, because they both flew the coop. What makes me happy now is
when they visit, stay for dinner, turn off their electronic devices, make eye
contact, and say stuff.
I am also happy when it’s me and Jorge and reruns of 1960s
sitcoms to keep us company. Plus, I am happy when I chat with a
friend, have a cold glass of milk in front of me, am cuddling with a baby, or
am holding the latest and greatest spy novel in my hands. Lately, petting my
Hershey Pie is at the top of the list!
But what about when troubles come? Can we be
happy then? Can we have joy when we do not feel well, or one of our
kids is in trouble? When we are surrounded by problem after problem after
problem?
The answer is yes. It is possible to smile and
laugh in the middle of all the madness, but only when we base our happiness on
our hope in Christ.
If my happiness were based on my money, where would I be if
I lost it all?
If my happiness were based on being young, I would have been
in trouble a while back.
Let's face it: Babies grow up, relationships come and go,
and perfect health does not last forever.
But Jesus, well, He is a constant we can rely on!
We still have to live this life to get to the eternal one,
so God reminds us in the verses above that when things get tough, even unbearable,
we can be happy by proactively making sure that our hope is in Christ; He is
One who will turn everything we have hoped for into a reality. In the meantime, maintaining the habit of
prayer keeps our focus where it should be.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, Thank You for giving us so much
hope. No matter what is going on, help us to always keep our eyes on
You and all the amazing blessings that are headed our way. In Jesus’
name, AMEN~
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