J - JOY

There’s an acronym for JOY that I love:

Jesus

Others

Yourself

It's a great way to remind us to show empathy and compassion. Our culture tells us that SELF is first. Self-care, self-love, forgive yourself, be kind to yourself. I am not saying that these things are bad or wrong, I am just saying that it’s a lot of focus on self. And maybe this is what gets in the way of showing that we care about others.
 
Think about it, every day we get up brush our teeth, wash our face, fix our hair, choose our clothes for the day, look in the mirror make sure we look presentable, feed ourselves, maybe pack a lunch to make sure we have food for later, check our phones, and maybe check social media to see how many “likes” we have on our last post (of a picture of ourselves). That’s a lot of self! All of this self- care is the exact opposite of what Jesus teaches – be self-LESS.

There are studies showing that the best way to get out of a funk is to do something for someone else. This makes sense to me because it helps us get out of our head; stop the “stinkin’ thinkin’.” And it feels good to help someone else, knowing we put a smile on someone’s face, knowing that we gave someone a little hope for the day, and that we filled their heart with JOY. Everyone is going through something, and many have it worse that we do. 

Years ago I went to Al-Anon. At first I went because I just knew that if I went my (ex) husband would start going (can you say codependent?). I soon learned that I couldn’t make him go or make him change or make him anything. That was between him and God. Hearing other stories and learning that others had it worse is what kept me going back. I know that sounds a bit selfish but I needed to get out of my own head and understand that my situation, though really hard for me at the time, wasn’t nearly as bad as someone else and it turned my angry heart into a grateful heart. And when I had a grateful heart, I was able to show Jesus, put others first, and stop thinking about myself all the time. It was the steppingstone I needed to make myself vulnerable and sign up for a yearlong training class on becoming a lay counselor. God took my mess and made it His message. My supervisor told the class we were going to be “trained listeners.” I was able to help others in a way I never imagined I could, and I learned how to - Rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn. Rom 12:15 Or as I like to say, “Be Jesus with skin.” So get out there and spread some joy! It feels good, I promise!

The lesson: When you’re in a funk, remember JOY. Jesus, others, yourself.

Pouring hope,
Nen ♥

 

“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.” 1 Pet. 5:7

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