How Do We "Count It All Joy" ?

Returning to Joy

Count it all Joy! A command in scripture that is often misunderstood. No, the burden is not on us to summon up joy. Praise God, that's Jesus' job! Our role is to introduce our trials to Jesus. Bring them before Him in dialogue. Journey with me today as I discuss how Jesus modeled this for us and how we can effectively "Count it all joy."

Scriptures mentioned:

Hebrews 12:2 ESV

"Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."

James [Jacob] 1:2-4 ESV

Count it all joy, my brethren when you meet trials of various kinds

James [Jacob] 1:12 ESV

"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."

Nehemiah 8:10 ESV

"... for the Joy of the Lord is your strength."

John 10:4-5 NASB
When he puts forth all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. A stranger they simply will not follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice of strangers.”
Practical Conversation with God Tips: Switching from a monologue to a dialogue in our time with Him.

Get quiet. Settle into whatever space your in. Begin to acknowledge that Jesus is with you there, even if you don't feel His presence. Think about His character. What about Him brings you delight? From that place, start by asking Jesus this first question, you can ask it out loud or silently in your head, but it'll help you begin to locate where you hear His voice within. Ask, "Jesus, Am I a child of God?" Now, wait. Listen to where you hear the answer. You may notice that the thought that comes to you in response to that question is different from the thought that comes to you if asked a question like, what's your favorite ice cream flavor? It's because "The Spirit himself, testifies with our spirit that we are God's children." Romans 8:16 NIV

Romans 8:16 TPT, "For the Holy Spirit makes God's fatherhood real to us as he whispers into our innermost being, "You are God's beloved child!"

Continuing The Conversation:

Jesus, who am I full of Joy? What do I look like?

Jesus, how do I return to that place of joy, that expression of joy you've created me for?

Jesus, When do I feel most joyful?

Jesus, is there a particular emotion, thought, or situation from which I have difficulty returning to joy? What would help me?

Jesus, what do you want to communicate from your heart to mines?

Jesus, what situation in my life could use your encouragement?

Enjoy the conversation with Jesus!

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