Joy is a Choice: Partnering with the Holy Spirit

Have you ever noticed how two people can experience the same situation and have completely different reactions?  One person might be filled with anxiety and fear, while the other remains calm and hopeful.  What’s the difference?  Often, it comes down to a choice.

We have the power to choose our response to life’s circumstances.  We can choose to focus on the negative, allowing fear and worry to consume us.  Or we can choose to focus on God, trusting in His goodness and allowing His joy to fill us.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 tells us to “rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.”  This isn’t a suggestion; it’s a command.  It’s a call to actively cultivate an attitude of joy, regardless of our external circumstances.

But how do we do that?  We partner with the Holy Spirit.  He’s the one who empowers us to choose joy, even when we don’t feel like it.  He reminds us of God’s truth, whispers His promises to our hearts, and fills us with His peace.

Philippians 4:4-7 encourages us to “rejoice in the Lord always” and to “not be anxious about anything.”  Instead, we’re told to bring our concerns to God in prayer, with thanksgiving.

Choosing joy is a daily decision.  It’s about surrendering our worries and fears to God and allowing Him to fill us with His peace and joy.  It’s about training our minds to focus on the good, to see the blessings, and to trust in God’s plan.

This week, let’s practice partnering with the Holy Spirit.  Let’s ask Him to help us choose joy in every situation.  Let’s cultivate an attitude of gratitude, focusing on the good things in our lives.  And let’s trust that God is working all things for our good.

Key Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Philippians 4:4-7