A New Word for 2015!

It is a blogging tradition these days to choose a word for your year.  Last year mine was GRACE.  I am convinced the world needs more of it, and I certainly knew our family could use some and give some as well.   It is my prayer that we lived up to that challenge!

So this year, I did not have to think but a minute to come up with my word for 2015-

Do you have it?
Do you need it?

Not happiness, because anyone can be happy, but true JOY.

Here is how the world defines joy-"the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation"

That would seem to me to be the definition of happiness.  There are a lot of things that can make me happy.  A  new book, lunch with a friend, chocolate, a clean room.  But all of those things are earthly and fleeting.

Here is what the Bible says about joy-
But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people." Luke 2:10

The news?  That the Savior was coming!  To Earth!  For them!  Can you imagine what they must have felt?

I am betting JOY! (No fleeting emotions there!)

You see, friends, that kind of JOY only comes from the Lord.

And I have been in short supply of it lately, honestly.  Not because He hasn't offered it, but because I have been so consumed with my own stinky circumstances that I have not allowed Him to give it to me.

I want that to change.
I need for that to change!

So, this year- JOY it is!

It may have to be a minute to minute decision for me some days, but it is one I pray I will choose.

How about you?

Blessings,

 And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Nehemiah 8:10b

Check out other's word choices!