Sunday, January 03, 2010

2010: the year of JOY


Be joyful always
1 Thessalonians 5:16

I've spent a great deal of time over the past few days thinking about the passing of 2009 and the dawning of 2010. I love the changing of years. It's the newness that gets me. The chance to start again. To stop and think about what worked and what needs changing. It's a chance for reflection and remembrance and I love it.

One of the things I've thought about often these past few days is how much my baby girl has grown. How is this possible?

January '09

January '10


Last year I was inspired by this post on my friend Tara's blog. I made the commitment that 2009 would be the year of creativity for me. I loved looking for inspiration throughout the year that got my creativity going and it felt good to make things with my own hands. I believe that in 2009, God reminded me to create and acknowledge beauty in my home and in the things around me.

This year I have decided will be the year of JOY for me. I have to admit that I was very hesitant when I felt God putting this on my heart. I mean, the verse says, "Be joyful always." Always, people. What if this is a year for illness, suffering, pain, etc. Can I be joyful always? I don't know. Honestly, I don't. But, I know that is what God is calling me to strive for. And so, this year as I go through my day to day, my minute by minute, it is my commitment to choose joy.

Be joyful always
1 Thessalonians 5:16


4 comments :

  1. Get this - I came up with the same thought yesterday. I've been reading "When Mama Ain't Happy, Ain't Nobody Happy" and it's really been convicting me. I'll call you!

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  2. You bring me joy... love ya...

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  3. I can't believe how much she's changed in just one short year!

    You already are such a joyful person! It rubs off on me when I'm with you!

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  4. Love this idea!

    Psalms 28:7 The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.

    2 Corinthians 6:10 ...sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having
    nothing, and yet possessing everything.

    James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds.

    Joy during the trials will be the hardest, yet so character building!

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