Jumping for Joy in troubled times

You are probably already thinking “This chick has lost it”. How can someone “jump for joy” in these troubled times? There is a pandemic. An extremely contentious election year. Race and culture clashes.

Just where is this joy going to come from?

On our own this is not possible. And before you think I have rose colored glasses on, I want to also say that this is not going to be a post about how Jesus fixes everything.

Joy in the midst of pain

So where am I going?

Jumping for joy in troubled times is more about an attitude and stance you choose to take than it is a feeling.

It is work. It is hard. It may not make you feel good. However, it will give you peace.

Peace, I have found, is better than happiness. Joy that produces peace is only possible with Jesus.

Jumping for joy in chaos

Note I did not say all of your problems will be erased. Trials and tribulations would end. Nope.

Jesus told us these hard times would come. In fact, much of the Bible is full of stories of how heroes of the faith overcame obstacle after obstacle, trial upon trial. And still had joy.

Their secret was who and what they placed their trust in. It wasn’t the local grapevine or courier bringing news. It wasn’t in things or possessions. It wasn’t even friends or family or their career.

It was Jesus. While He may not lift you out of the chaos, He will certainly meet you in it.

Do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you; I will help you;
I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10

How you can jump for joy

So how do you access joy in your life? You cultivate it.

Through prayer, sitting with your Lord and letting Him sing over you. Through resting in His goodness and grace. Through taking a time out. Through understanding that while you may have troubles, your troubles do not and should not have you!

I want to leave you with some of my favorite quotes and Bible verses. May these words speak affirmation over you and inspire you to reach for joy.

This world would crush us under with fear, anxiety and pain, yet God wants to restore you. I pray you will take time to meditate on these thoughts and let them settle in your soul.

Jumping for joy in troubled times may not be easy, but it is not impossible!

Scripture on joy

1 Chronicles 16:27 – “Splendor and majesty are before Him; strength and joy are in His place.”

Psalm 5:11 – “But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them shout for joy forever. May You shelter them, and may those who love Your name boast about You.”

Psalm 27:6 – “Then my head will be high above my enemies around me; I will offer sacrifices in His tent with shouts of joy. I will sing and make music to the Lord.”

Psalm 32:7 – “You are my hiding place; You protect me from trouble. You surround me with joyful shouts of deliverance. Selah“

Proverbs 12:20 – “Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy.”

Isaiah 29:19 – “The humble will have joy after joy in the Lord, and the poor people will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.”

Quotes to inspire joy

“Don’t get stuck where you fell short. Let the Lord strengthen you. He will make up the difference.” Bishop T.D. Jakes

“When you carry the weight of yesterday, it will ruin the power of today and the progress of tomorrow.” Dr. Tony Evans

“God is who He says He is. God can do what He says He can do. I am who God says I am. I can do all things through Christ. God’s word is alive and active in me.” Beth Moore

“Our pathways often twist through stormy landscapes; but when we look back we will see a thousand miles of miracles and answered prayers.” Dr. David Jeremiah