Do Not Be Afraid to Practice Joy!
Posted on Dec 10, 2020 by Cyntha Schnaath
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
For many of us these days it may be challenging to practice joy, but I think it is necessary for our own mental health. So how can we do this? Here are some helpful suggestions:
- Discover something each day that makes you laugh or smile:
- The smell of cookies baking in the oven
- The silliness of a family member or friend
- The sound of Christmas hymns
- Walking outside when it is starting to snow
- The Christmas decorations that you have set up
- Be intentional about seeing joy that is around you:
- The pet that wants to go for a walk
- The child who has a story to tell you
- The warmth of your home
- A cup of hot tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
- The phone call or FaceTime with a friend
- The reading of a favorite poem
- Then take note of what has brought you joy this day:
- Write it down in your journal
- Put it on your calendar
- Post it on Facebook
- Share it with your family at a meal
So, I pray that you can practice joy and make it count so it lifts up your life, for there is much for us to be joyful about in these days that we need to share!
Blessings, my siblings in Christ!
Be well, be safe, be hope!
Pastor Cynthia