Be Generous With Joy

 

Joy is an upbeat feeling of gladness that results in positive actions. Some people sing for joy, others dance. Some people wax eloquent in poetry, others express joy through paintings or sculptures.

Christians find joy in knowing and serving God. Jesus found joy in obeying His Father’s earthly will to the very end, meaning even to His death on the cross (Hebrews 12:2).  

It’s hard to separate joy from happiness or contentment. True joy is hard to hide or contain, but why even try?

Joy gets even better when shared. It was never meant to be hoarded.

Some see joy as morning dew or a gentle rain bringing hidden seeds to life as colorful flowers in unexpected places.

Others see joy as a quiet brook bubbling along while refreshing friends. Either way it is something desirable, positive and uplifting.

Be generous with joy. “He who waters will himself be watered,” said Solomon (Proverbs 11:25).

“What a person sows they will reap,” said Paul (Galatians 6:7).

Joy can be shared with an encouraging word, a loving deed or even a heart of forgiveness.

Joy flourishes in the unity of community. Consider these suggestions:

• ·      Share time with someone by treating them to breakfast, lunch or dinner.
• ·     Send a card of thanks or appreciation.
• ·     Connect with friends or family through phone calls or other modes of communication.
• ·     Invite someone into your home for simple fellowship over coffee or tea and dessert.
• ·     Surprise a colleague with their favorite treat.
• ·     Share encouragement with a favorite scripture or personal story of God’s goodness.

I’m sure you have your own good ideas, and things like this make joy contagious. Spread joy, not germs!

Joy is an inner fountain that propels us through all seasons of life. Some would call joy the oil of gladness that keeps their days rolling along.

As you join others on life’s journey, be generous with joy. Together your joy will never run dry.