My Joy Jar

Today, I made this joy jar. 

"What is this joy jar about?" you may ask.

Well in this joy jar I have begun to write a few things on slips of paper that I am thankful for and that bring me joy. I wrote the names of my loved ones. I wrote a few of my favorite things like sunflowers, sunsets, and giraffes. I wrote about my prayer time, my bible readings, and my Savior. Each of these things I wrote, folded up, and put into this jar.

So why did I do this?

Well today, I texted my mom in tears. I was really really unhappy with my circumstances, and I felt the need to complain to someone... her response was a quick "take a prayer walk and reflect on all of the things that you're thankful for. Don't let Satan rob you of your joy."

Mommas know best, so I did just that.

After my prayer walk, God really laid it on my heart to make this joy jar.

According to Scripture, "the joy of the Lord is our strength" (Nehemiah 8:10) And if I'm going to have the strength to resist the devil as he comes to steal, kill, and destroy, then I'm going to need all of the joy (strength) I can get.

With that in mind, I have decided to add at least one thing I am thankful for to my joy jar every day. On the days I feel defeated and can't seem to find something to be thankful for, I will simply pull one or two (or as many as needed) pieces of paper out of my joy jar and simply reflect on those things.

If you can guard your hearts well enough to not allow Satan to steal your joy, you should have the strength to resist him under all circumstances.

"I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." 

Romans 13:10