Joy is a Wonderful Thing

Every year in January I plan a retreat for my executive team. I have done this for more than 10 years.  Every year I ask each of my team members to pick words that will be the so-called theme for their year.

I love seeing the words they chose and how they were y put into play during that year. 

This year my word was JOY.  I felt like it was time to get back the joy that I had lost.

I needed to understand what joy truly was and not just happiness.

According to Google, the definition of happiness is the state of being happy.  Happiness comes from your circumstances.

The definition of joy is the emotion of great delight caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation

I wanted to feel that Joy again!!!  I also chose a bible verse that enhanced my word.

Nehemiah 8:10

"Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” 

I have worked really hard this year to delve into that bible verse and not let a person or my circumstances define my joy.

People do not always treat you how you want to be treated and circumstances don’t always work out how you want them to. (Sometimes they work out even better!) 

I feel that I have found myself again.  I have found that joy that brings happiness and delight!!!!  I don’t ever want to lose this feeling. 

Joy is such a wonderful thing!!!