Plug into the Power

For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12, AMP)

Thank you for walking with me through this series of 7 Keys to a Joy-Filled Life. I’ve really enjoyed sharing my heart with you on this subject. If this series has impacted you in some way, I would love to hear about it. I’m working on another series that I hope to offer you in a few weeks.

Today, let’s wrap things up with my number 1 secret to a joy-filled life. A joy-filled life is impossible if you are not plugged into God’s Word. God’s Word is the source of joy.

In fact, just yesterday I found myself losing perspective and suffering from feelings of inadequacy. This is the enemy’s poison of choice for me and I was drinking it pretty heavily. I knew I needed to get my thoughts back on track and take captive every thought that was not pleasing to the Lord. So when my sons laid down for a nap, I sat outside reading the Psalms.

As I read from Psalm 1 to Psalm 16 I was refreshed and reinvigorated. God used His Word to breathe new life into me. He used it to get me back on track.

The enemy will try to steal our joy by getting us to dwell on lies. We must take these lies and make them captive to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).

There is no substitute for time in God’s Word. Even a verse a day can make all the difference in the world, if you take time to truly meditate on it. No matter what comes your way God’s Word can breathe life into any situation you face.

Here are just a few verses to use the next time you find yourself losing the joy-filled life…

When you feel weary remember…

“but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

When you need courage remember…

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

When you don’t understand why something is happening remember…

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9)

There is a verse for everything you face in life. God’s Truth can bring light to anything that comes your way. No matter the time, no matter the day, no matter the problem… God’s Word has the answer. Never stop seeking Him! He will bring you true and lasting joy through His Word.

Lord, I pray that you will help me always stay plugged into You. May my heart not be satisfied by anything but You. May my joy be steadfast in the things of You as I cling to You with all my might!

Living the Joy-Filled Life in Jesus,