MEMORISE: A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones. – Proverbs 17:22
BIBLE READING: Philippians 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
MESSAGE:
Life can sometimes be filled with challenges, but when God fills your heart with joy, you’ll respond positively to situations even in difficult times. I remember a time when all we had left in the house was a tuber of yam. My husband had gone on an outreach and was scheduled to be back that evening. I had planned to make a bowl of pounded yam for him, but that morning, a woman came with an urgent need, and I painfully let go of my last meal. I became so worried about what my husband and children would eat when they returned home, but the Holy Spirit encouraged me to smile and start singing praises to God. I’m sure the devil must have thought I was crazy. Before the end of that day, however, someone blessed us with ten tubers of yams!
My dear child, it is okay to feel sad or frustrated when things don’t go your way, but don’t let those emotions steal your joy. Laugh at the little things you come across to lighten your load, and remind yourself that God is good. He is in control, and He is working things out for your good.
Quiz: Fill in the blank: “God is still __ He is in control, and working things out for your good.”
ACTION POINT:
When you are faced with a difficult situation, laugh and rejoice knowing that God’s got you.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
Matthew 9:18-38 Genesis 27-28