Enemy of Joy: Being Easily Offended

Week 5 - Day 33

Joy cannot properly co-exist in a life that is offended. If we dwell on the past hurts, we empower the devil to steal our joy. We will be weighed down with "spirits of heaviness" that will create feelings of anger, self-pity, criticism and unforgiveness.

Being offended means we feel insulted, mistreated, snubbed, or disrespected. All of us will experience things like these. It is important to realize though that the mistreatment itself does not cause offense, but we choose to be offended. Joy cannot survive in an atmosphere where offense is prevalent.

Joy and forgiveness walk hand in hand. Wherever you find people with great joy, you will find great forgiveness in their lives (that is rooted in the revelation that they have been forgiven much by G*d and others). We forgive not only because it is the right thing to do, but it is also a great weapon for releasing an "open heaven" over those being forgiven and over our own lives (consider Jesus on the cross and Stephen in Acts 7 - and read John 20:23).

How can we become "unoffendable"? Here are five suggestions:

1. Realize that we offend others and need forgiveness too.
2. Understand that overcoming the tendency of being offended is necessary for maturity and effective ministry.
3. Realize that our response to a situation is almost always more important than the situation itself.
4. Increase rejoicing when offense tries to control you.
5. Get personal ministry to resolve deep hurts.

There is one more step to take in overcoming this sin of offense and bitterness. It's this: do a great work for G*d. Nehemiah, in response to his enemies' request to meet with him in the Valley of Ono, said, "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?" (Nehemiah 6:1-3). Those who focus on a big vision aren't even aware of many of the wrongs done to them, and these "history makers" know that being easily offended causes a "going down" from the high place of G*d's purpose.

Let's purpose to rejoice always and forgive easily. As we do, G*d will strengthen us in amazing ways.

Declaration: I am doing a great work in G*d. I am not easily offended. I walk in radical forgiveness. My joy helps insulate me from offense. (WOW!)

The Discipline of Joy & Laughter

Week 5 - Day 32

There are many important disciplines to develop in life. It is the wise person who establishes regular non-negotiable "customs" like Daniel (see Daniel 6:10). The quality of our life is impacted greatly by the development of consistency in areas such as time with G*d. Bible reading, fellowship, positive declaration, thankfulness, etc. If we proactively put these in our schedule, we will set ourselves up for success in our Christian life.

One non-negotiable custom that is often overlooked is joy and laughter. "A merry heart is good like a medicine" (Proverbs 17:22). We've already acknowledged that "Dr. G*d" has give us a wonderful prescription for health and longevity. Now it is up to us to find a way to consistently make this happen in our lives (and not just wait for special moments to develop on their own).

Laughter clubs are appearing all over the world. (Do an Internet search on this and you will be amazed at what you find.) There are many people who participate in a laughter group one or more times a week. Even though we many not be able to join such a group, there are many ways we can increase joy and laughter. Here are some suggestions:

1. Watch humorous, but clean, video presentation. (If you have children you could sit down and watch one of their shows, if you like stand up comedy try: http://www.bananascomedy.com/ , if you are married or engaged try: http://www.laughyourway.com/ )**
2. Become a student of animals. They are funny. (America's Funniest Home videos abcfamily)
3. Get CD's of people laughing uncontrollably (Anyone who has conference/session cd's of people being filled with the "new wine" of the Holy Spirit and laughing that could lend it to you is pretty funny & contagious.)**
4. Create a regular joy prayer meeting where you laugh at the lies of the devil (Psalm 2:1-4) (We did this at Seymour Harvest, wow it was so freeing and we were all filled with joy.)**
5. Find Christian friends to have special joy times of stirring up joy, child likeness and hilarity. (Ex. Begin praying the scriptures that speak of joy. Lay hands on one another and ask the L*rd to pour out joy and manifest His joy in them. Watch the awesomeness of G*d's joy fill them up!)**
6. Look in the mirror and tell yourself this: Don't take yourself so seriously, then laugh. (Even David Hogan is a pretty joyful/jolly fellow: http://www.freedom-ministries.us/ & he's pretty serious.)**
7. Give expression to your "inner laugh." Don't just laugh on the inside. (My inner laugh is hilarious! The Holy Spirit really brought that out of me a few years ago. When you hear it, it becomes contagious to laugh...LOL)**

Laughter is like a muscle. If we have not laughed much in recent times, it may take a while to get strong in this area. Don't be discouraged. Just set your compass toward increased chuckling.

(Last night I did something dumb. I snuck up on one of the cats in the house and when I touched him quickly he scatted and in the process his hind claws caught my big toe. It was a mess but the whole time I was laughing. Even though it hurt I still laughed because I knew what I did was a dumb mistake and at the same time his reaction was hilarious.)**

Declaration: I have the discipline of joy and laughter. It is one of my non-negotiable customs and disciplines.

**Quotes in lavender are from Leslie.

Rejoice in the L*rd Always

Week 5 - Day 31

"Rejoice in the L*rd always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The L*rd is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to G*d' and the peace of G*d, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:4-7).

Paul is writing to the Philippians from jail. One of the main themes of the New Testament book is joy. He emphasizes this when he says, "Rejoice in the L*rd always." He not only says it once; but he repeats it, just in case we somehow overlook its significance.

This command is in three parts. First, we are to rejoice. This means to be glad and take delight. Secondly, we are to rejoice in the L*rd. We are not to just think positively, but we are to "rejoice" by exulting in the various aspects of our L*rd's nature and promises concerning what we are tempted to worry about. Lastly, we are to rejoice always. It is to be a continual expression of our lives (not just something we do in church or when we feel like it.) Remember, this is not a suggestion, but it's a command. That we may depress some, but it excites me because G*d never commands us to something He has not already empowered us to be able to perform. Yipee! Now that is something to rejoice about!

There is one more thing to see here before we close. The verses that follow "rejoice in the L*rd always" tell us to absolutely and totally reject worry. We are to empty ourselves of this crippler in our lives. This will occur as we have a revelation of truth to replace the worry with prayer, thanksgiving and rejoicing in the L*rd. Thankful rejoicing is truly a key for a powerful prayer life and to walking in deep peace and joy.

Declaration: i am learning how to rejoice in the L*rd always. I continually turn my heart towards His goodness, love and promises. I verbalize praise, thanksgiving and adoration of Jesus. I don't wait for circumstances to change before rejoicing, but my rejoicing changes circumstances.

For the Joy Set Before Him

Week 5 - Day 30

"Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of G*d" (Hebrews 12:2).

One of the ways to possess and keep joy is to be able to "see through" the challenges of life and focus on the joy that is set before us. There are two specific joys that we can fix our gaze upon that will propel greater joy now.

First, we can focus on the joy of our heavenly reward. We are saved by faith (not our goodness); but we can "lay up treasure in heaven" (Matthew 6:20) that will have benefits now and for eternity. Some Christians are too earthly minded to be any heavenly good. (I hope my corny humor caused a chuckle or two.) Listen , our journey here on earth is but a moment in our eternal life as Christians. What we believe and do in Jesus' name will lay a good foundation for this life and the life to come. This realization can bring a joyous perspective to our time here on earth.

Secondly, we understand that vision for the future brings strength and joy for the present. Consider an athlete who has an ambition to achieve a great goal. This dream (future joy) causes an increase in enthusiasm to overcome challenges and in establishing consistency in daily "life-launching" habits. Where there is no vision for the future, there can be little power or joy for the present.

Jesus endured the ultimate negative circumstance (the cross) by focusing on the joy that was set before Him. He has set an example for us. He is the author and the finisher of our faith. He will help us walk in joy-filled faith by causing us to keep our eyes on the greater joy ahead.

(Inter-Leslie: I wanted to add here that yes the L-rd through the Holy Spirit will help us walk in joy-filled faith, however we must ask for it on a daily basis. We are given according to our faith and the Holy Spirit will pour out as much as we contend for it. So if we want our eyes to continue to stay focused on the greater joy ahead (higher vision) we must ask for it. In your personal prayer time for your own inner man you have to contend. James 4 says "you have not because you do not ask for it." Jesus says in Matthew that if you "ask you will receive, if you seek you will find, and if you knock the door will be opened for you." It's a heart connect that G*d wants with us and He will purposely hold these things for you until you ask for them. ASK for the fullness of joy and fullness of His perfect will, His ways, and His purposes for your life today and everyday. When you read the declaration do you just read it or do you DECLARE it over yourself with a loud voice? The same in your prayer time don't just think it say it! It doesn't matter how fancy or anointed or how well you say it just simply say it and it will be done for you in Jesus name. When you read the declarations READ them OUT LOUD and speak that joy-life into your spirit and daily life.)

Declaration: I am empowered to face my present with faith because I have a great joy set before me. This future joy causes me to persevere through tough times with joy now. I am a person with great vision for this life. i also rejoice as I consider heaven and it's reward.

All Joy and Peace in Believing

Week 5 - Day 29

"Now may the G-d of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" (Romans 15:13). This is one of my favorite Bible verses. It's reference to hope is foundational for those who are on the "joy journey." Remember, hope is the "confident, optimistic expectation that good is coming." It is the "soil" that faith and joy must have their roots in.

Paul prays that the Roman people will be "filled" with ALL joy. Concerning this joy let me ask you: is joy an emotion or a substance? It s an emotion, but it is primarily a substance - something that can be imparted and something that we can defeat the enemy with. The apostle prayed that we would be filled with it. This would seem to indicate that we could also be empty of it, half-filled or have other levels of joy. Is there a kind of "spiritual dip stick" that measures our joy level? I wonder.

What strikes me more though in this verse is the phrase "in believing." It says, "now may the G-d of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing." Our joy and other emotions result mostly from what we believe. This verse implies that believing our G*d is the G*d of hope is a key to experiencing joy and peace. This hope is based on the finished work of Christ, His love, His goodness and His promises. As we replace the lies of the devil with truth (John 8:31, 32), we will see a corresponding increase in our joy level. We will indeed be filled with all joy.

Romans 15:13 starts with the word now. It does not say tomorrow, or next week or next year. It says NOW! It does not give us the idea that we will be filled when our circumstances change. No, it says, "believe now and you will be filled." Let's receive a filling of joy and peace by faith right now.

Declaration: (OUT LOUD!) The G*d of hope is continually filling with joy. I am a believing believer who believes in His goodness and promises. I am being filled more and more as a result. Right now I choose to walk in an abounding hope that will ignite my joy like never before.

Going Deeper Into Joy & Review Day 27/28

"True happiness is not attained through self-gratification, but through fidelity to a worthy purpose." -Helen Keller

Health Benefits of Laughter:

The Science of Laughter Discovery Health website reports that when we laugh, natural killer cells that destroy tumors and viruses increase in our bodies. Also increasing are Gamma-inter-feron (a disease-fighting protein), T-cells (important for our immune system) and B-cells (which make disease-fighting antibodies). This website also states that laughter lowers blood pressure and increases oxygen in the blood, which promotes health and healing.

"Let all those who seek you rejoice and be glad in You; Let such as love Your salvation say continually, 'The L*rd be magnified!'" (Psalm 30:16)

Let's Review What We've Learned

• Read or Review each of the week's five devotionals.
• Read out loud each of the five declarations at the end of the devotionals.

Questions

• Which of the five devotionals spoke to you in the greatest way? Why?
• What one sentence from the five devotionals stood out to you the most? Why did this speak to you?
• How did you do with last week's steps to increase your strength through joy?
• What two or three steps can you take this week to move forward in strengthening your life through joy?

From Leslie -- "Really and deeply meditate on the questions and let them catapult you into what the Holy Spirit has been showing you and speaking to you about joy over the last week."

Enemy of Joy: Excessive Introspection

Week 4 - Day 26

Here is a truth to remember: negative, excessive introspection leads to discouragement and ultimately to depression. When we constantly try to find out what is wrong with us, we will be on a journey that leads to the Christian wilderness. Certainly , we cannot be in denial about negative tendencies in our lives, but the way to overcome these is not by continual self-analysis. This kind of introspection can be a major enemy of joy for our lives.

Excessive introspection is the detailed, mental self-examination of feelings, thoughts and motives. It is the fruit of the works of the law and performance Christianity. The book of Galatians repudiates this as not only unbiblical, but completely counterproductive (Gal. 5: 1-6). Listen to what Paul says. "O foolish Galatians! ...Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are you now being made perfect by the flesh? ...Therefore He who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you, does He do it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?" (Galatians 3:1-5). Introspection and works are not the keys to miracles, Christian maturity or the supply of the Spirit. It is the "hearing of faith."

Paul adds in chapter five, "I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh" (Galatians 5:16). We are told to activate the positive ("walk in the Spirit") and then the negative ("lust of the flesh") won't happen. The key of getting rid of darkness is to turn the light on, not to continually analyze the various aspects of the darkness.

In conclusion, it is important to deal with our weaknesses primarily by growing in faith and filling our lives with the thins of the Spirit. Certainly, we need accountability and responsibility for these weaknesses, but this must be done as part of a bigger plan that primarily includes "mega doses" of G*d's Word and Spirit. Excessive introspection won't help this plan, so stay away from it.

Declaration: I reject excessive, negative introspection as a means to Christian maturity. I walk in the Spirit and do not fulfill the lusts of the flesh . The "hearing of faith" is alive in me and causes me to mature, have an increasing supply of the Spirit and have miracles work through me.

G*d Loves a Hilarious Giver

Week 4 - 25

It would be good for us to perk up our ears when G*d says He loves something. One of those times is found in 2 Corinthians 9. "But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for G*d loves a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:6,)

This word "cheerful" is a great word. It means happy and optimistic. From the context, we can see that we are to give happily, and with optimism, because we realize that we are participating in the wonderful spiritual phenomena of giving.

We can take this further by understanding that the Greek word for cheerful is hilaros. Can you see something here? Hilarious comes from "hilaros." This understanding takes our attitude about giving to another level. It is one things to be happy and optimistic as we give, but it is quite another to be hilarious in our giving. Optimism is the reflection of a prosperous soul (3 John 2); but regular, hilarious giving reveals that we have established radical core values that will accelerate the removal of limits and constraints from our lives. It is to this type of person that the Bible says, "G*d loves." of course, G*d loves everyone, but there is something that touches His heart when He sees a person become a joyous giver.

We are told to not give "grudgingly" (2 Corinthians 9:7). This would mean that we are doing so with "sorrow, pain, grief, annoyance, affliction, and mourning." If hilarious giving attracts G*d to us, then "annoyed giving" would seem to create a distance between His empowering grace and us. Our attitude about giving indeed becomes a thermostat that will set the "temperature" for our Christian experience and the quality of our lives. If hilarious giving is something that G*d loves, then we need to overcome stinginess in our soul and intentionally develop this abounding cheerfulness. It is a journey that will take us from glory to glory, strength to strength and joy to joy.

Declaration: I am a cheerful giver. I am becoming a hilarious giver who jumps for joy when I get to give. It is something that G*d loves and I love it, too.

The Party Is Here

Week 4 -Day 24

I remember the tent ministry well. It came to the town where I was a pastor in rural Nevada. I had agreed to help sponsor them for their ten days in our community. I had my concerns, but still said yes.

You see, this was a special "renewal tent" that had wild things happen in it. (I had heard of its reputation!) I had partially experienced some of these types of things; so I was both excited (I wanted more of G*d) and nervous (what if it, or I, got out of control).

When I saw the tent, I saw a flag flying over it saying, "The Party is Here." This phrase troubled me. I was not comfortable with a church ministry saying this. It did not seem right. What would people think?

Well, ten days later my thoughts had changed. We had two meetings a day and I experienced G*d in powerful ways. His presence increased throughout the week. People were responding in different ways. Some shook, some fell under the power of G*d, some laughed uncontrollably, and many were so full of the Spirit that they acted like they were drunk. It truly became a big party. Yes, the party was there and those attending did not want to leave. There was child-like hilarity. There was deep relational bonding. There was a great love for Jesus that infected our lives.

My attitude changed during these meetings. I realized that religious tradition had made me stuffy and unable to cut loose in G*d. I was bound in many ways to a spirit of control and a fear of embarrassment. Since that time, I have concluded that each of us needs Holy Spirit "drinking buddies" who love to frolic in the presence of G*d. Obviously, we cannot do this at every church meeting, but what a blessing to have times to "party" in Jesus where we can laugh and be overwhelmed by His Spirit. Surprisingly, I believe it is part of the new wineskin for the days ahead (Mark 2:22)

Declaration: There was a party when the Prodigal son came home (Luke 15); and, now, I have come home knowing it is proper to party in Jesus now. I am serious about G*d and the kingdom, but I run to the party because it is part of experiencing the full joy that Jesus has for me.

Right Song, Wrong Side (The Sacrifice of Joy)

Week 4 - Day 22

People of joy learn to rejoice in G*d's promises even before they have experienced the victory. Their gladness is not linked to circumstances, but it is rooted in trust in G*d.

There was a remarkable praise service tat is recorded in Exodus 15 after the children of Israel's miraculous deliverance from Egypt through the Red Sea. "Then Moses and the children of Israel sang this song to the L*rd ...: 'I will sing to the L*rd, for He has triumphed gloriously! The horse and its rider He has thrown into the sea!'... Then Miriam... and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances. And Miriam answered them: 'Sing to the L*rd, for He has triumphed gloriously!'" (Exodus 15:1, 20, 21).

Listen however to what had happened before these miracles. "... the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid... Then they said to Moses, 'Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness?... Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, 'Let us alone that we may serve Egyptians? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness'" (Exodus 14:10-12). It was not a pretty picture.

The merriment in chapter 15 was not wrong. Surely we need to celebrate radically after victories. Here though is the problem: they had the right song (praise), but it was on the wrong side of the Red Sea. They were out of Egypt, but Egypt was still firmly in them. Their grumbling was actually a bigger problem than the problem of the sea and the Egyptians.

What is the point of all this? Hear this: "And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me; Therefore, I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle; I will sing, yes I will sing praises to the L*rd" (Psalm 27:6). One key for our lives is to intentionally stir up joy before we see the victory. It is called "the sacrifice of joy." Let's proactively give this sacrifice.

Declaration: I celebrate now. I rejoice now. I dance now. I declare the victory now. I don't wait for the sea to part, but I offer the sacrifice of praise - that is, the fruit of my lips, giving thanks to His name (see Hebrews 13:15).

The Angel's Announcement About Jesus

Week 4 - Day 22

I don't completely understand how it works when an angel gets an assignment to give a message to humans, but I am sure that the words are chosen very carefully to convey the highest purposes of G*d. With that in mind, the angel's announcement to the shepherds about the birth of Jesus would therefore be quite instructive to. "Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the L*rd'" (Luke 2:8-11).

"Good tidings of great joy" is the first thing that is said in the angelic announcement. Let that sink in for a moment. The angel did not say, "I bring you news of a teaching that I hope you can follow"; or "I bring you news that Jesus is coming; and, boy, is He mad!" No, the message was, "it's time to celebrate! G*d is doing what you couldn't. He is making a way where there was no way. You are being saved from the curse, rejection, shame, punishment, poverty, and sickness; and from performance-based living. The door is being opened to eternal life, intimacy with the Father, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and so much more. It is incredible, joyous news!"

What is the first thing that people hear from the church? Is it a message of good news or is it a message that is bad news (because it focuses more on what we need to do rather than what Jesus has already done)? Churches that rejoice continually in G*d's goodness will attract people who need hope and are often castaways of religious churches that have a tendency to block grace by legalism and emphasizing the works of the law.

The angel knew something that we must know. if we don't believe we have fantastic news to share, then we need to ask G*d to open our eyes to the greatness of our salvation. And, you know what? He will!

Declaration: I join the angels in declaring good tidings of great joy. I am receiving an increasing revelation of G*d that makes me want to participate in outrageous celebration. The message of Jesus is good news!

Going Deeper & Review Day(s) 20/21

Week 3 Day 20 & 21

"When was the last time you laughed for the sheer joy of your salvation? People are not attracted to somber doctrines. There is no persuasive power in a gloomy and morbid religion. Let the world see your joy and you won't be able to keep them away. To be filled with G*d is to be filled with joy." -Anonymous

Health Benefits of Laughter

A study by cardiologist at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore gives evidence that laughter along with an active sense of humor, helps protect against heart attack. The study, which was the first to indicate that laughter may help prevent heart disease, found that people with heart disease were 40 percent less likely to laugh in a variety of situations compared to people of the same age without heart disease. The results of the study were presented at the Scientific Session of the America College of Cardiology on March 7, 2005, in Orlando, Florida.

Day 21 Let's Review What We've Learned

• Read and review each of the week's five devotionals.
• Read out loud each of the five declarations at the end of the devotionals.

Questions

• Which of the five devotionals spoke to you in the greatest way? Why?
• What one sentence from the five devotionals stood out to you the most? Why did this speak to you?
• How did you do with last week's steps to increase your strength through joy?
• What two or three steps can you take this week to move forward in strengthening your life through joy?

"Whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory..." (1 Peter 1:8)

Enemy of Joy: A Critical Spirit

Week 3 - Day 19

An obsessive attitude of disapproval and finding fault is called a "critical spirit." Those with this attitude regularly see negatives, regularly complain and are usually upset with something or someone. Their identity is rooted in what they are against rather than what they are for. This spirit greatly hinders joy.

A critical spirit is fueled by insecurity, competition, perfectionism, and self-criticism. Insecurity causes us to focus on the faults of others so that we don't have to fully face our own issues. (We tend to judge ourselves by our motives and others by their actions.) Competition creates an "us against them" mentality. (The successes of others are seen as a threat to our own future.) Perfectionism makes us "not fun to be with" because we give little encouragement for improvements or positive steps made by others. The biggie, though, is self-criticism. This greatly feeds the critical spirit. Let's explore this one further.

When Jesus said, "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39), He was giving us more than a command. He was sharing this principle of life: how we feel about ourselves, will strongly affect how we feel about others. If we love ourselves, will love others. If we hate ourselves, we will have a tendency to hate others. If we accept ourselves, we will accept others. If we are critical of ourselves, we will often have a critical spirit concerning others.

Letting go of the critical spirit can be scary. There is a fear that doing this will actually increase negative behavior in others. (It is believed that keeping negative will help others "tow the line.") The use of criticism as a motivational tool may bring some short-term positive results, but it will produce long-term relationship strain (as well as damage the "father concept" in people's lives.)

When we get a life-altering revelation of how much we are loved and forgiven, then we are on the road to eliminating the critical spirit. When we see how much mercy we have been given, then we will give mercy. Of course, this does mean that we are ignoring problems that need to be addressed; but we will do so from a spirit of love and wholeness, and not from a "critical spirit."

Declaration: I have great joy because I am loved and forgiven by G*d. I see the good in others. The critical spirit is far from me.

Rejoice in That Day and Leap for Joy

Week 3 - Day 18

Luke 6:22-23 would probably make The Top Ten List of extraordinary things Jesus said. He says, "Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you, and revile you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of Man's sake. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven, for in like manner their fathers did to the prophets."

This passage not only tells us what to do when we are persecuted for our connection to Jesus, but it reveals three powerful life principles which will dramatically impact our lives.

First, we are to intentionally stir up joy when things are tough. This is a choosing to go against negative emotions by learning how to "encourage ourselves in the L*rd" (see what David did in 1 Samuel 30:6). "Now David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the L*rd his G*d." (Look up Strong's #2388)

Secondly, we are to rejoice "in that day." Just as Ephesians 4:26 exhorts us to deal with anger and bitterness on a daily basis ("do not let the sun go down on your wrath"); we are called to not allow a day to end without rejoicing in the face of opposing feelings and circumstances.

Thirdly, Jesus said we are to "leap for joy." Wow! It is obvious that the situation Jesus describes in Luke 6 is not a time where most of us will feel like leaping, but He is giving us an important secret life. It's this: the key to breaking off spirits of heaviness is to increase our physical demonstrativeness in proportion to the emotional attack that is coming against us. This can be done through leaping, talking loudly to our own soul (as David did in the Psalms), dancing, running, shouting, or aggressively declaring G*d's promises.

"Rejoice in that day and leap for joy" is a compass for those who want to travel up to the headwaters of G*d's joy. Let's encourage each other to find the hidden truths of Luke 6:23.

Declaration: (OUTLOUD) I am receiving great revelation about rejoicing in the L*rd. I am choosing to rejoice sooner (than I used to) when tough things happen. I am learning to rejoice and leap for joy on the same day the challenge comes. I am on a glorious journey toward full joy.

Overcoming the Elder Brother Spirit

Week 3 - Day 17

The story of the prodigal son in Luke 14 has not one, but commandment two prodigals. The younger son left his father's house and participated in sinful, wild living. The older son stayed in the house, but he left his father's heart. His joyless, critical attitude reflected that he too was a prodigal son who had drifted into pride and tradition.

"Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. So he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, 'Your brother has come, and because he has received him safe and sound, your father has killed the fatted calf.' But he was angry and would not go in. Therefore his father came out and pleaded with him. So he answered and said to his father, 'Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this son of yours came, who has devoured your livelihood with harlots, you killed the fatted calf for him.' And he said to him, 'Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours. It was right that we should make merry and be glad, for your brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found'" (Luke 15:25-32).

The "elder brother spirit" can come on any of us if we are not careful. It is evidenced by: 1) being disturbed by "too much" celebration and joy in the church ; 2) being jealous over the grace that others receive; 3) having a competitive spirit; 4) focusing more on performance than on relationships; 5) being bitter at G*d (things are unfair); 6) being isolated and unwilling to participate with the "family".

Certainly we need mature fathers and mothers in our midst that can help us to not forget the ancient boundaries (Proverbs 23:10) of the faith and help us maintain proper biblical order; but elder brothers have the tendency to "major in minors" and to devalue the role that joy (making merry) has in our lives. Truly, the presence of joy is one of the main signs of spiritual maturity.

Declaration: I am growing into a true father or mother in the Spirit. My joy is increasing as I take this journey into greater spiritual maturity.

Eager Anticipation

Week 3 - Day 16

We had a yellow lab when we lived in Nevada. Snoopy loved to eat (it showed!), and he enjoyed sleeping seemingly 22 hours a day. Even so, there was one thing we had to be careful about, or else this apathetic pooch would become hyper and start leaping with excitement. What was it? It was this: moving his leash so that it made some kind of noise.

Snoopy lived for walks, and a noisy leash was the indicator to him that something good was coming. Even if this dog was sleeping deeply (with twitching and deep snoring), the leash sound would cause him to come forth as if he was shot out of a cannon. Many times we took walks that were unplanned because we could not resist the enthusiasm we saw. Selah! (pause and reflect)

The L*rd spoke to me through Snoopy's actions. "Steve, keep your eager anticipation in life. Always be listening for any sign of My 'moving.' When you hear a jangle in the Spirit, respond. Don't become old in your attitude and lose the wonder of unusual coincidences and the hearing of testimonies. Stay alive in Me."

It's vital to cultivate expectancy, or else our joy and hope will decline. (Little children at Christmas are an example of the goal for our inward life-attitudes.) And here is an amazing thing - this outlook can be cultivated as we receive new revelation of His goodness and as we learn the habit of responding to any "little" thing He may be doing.

"Now may the G*d of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" (Romans 15:13). Hope is the positive, optimistic expectation that good is coming.

So , like Snoopy, let's always be ready to jump up and abound in the Spirit. Let's keep our ears perked for the jangle of a testimony, a soul saved a changed life, a Bible verse shared, a healing, a miracle, a revival report, a prayer prayed, a promise given, a report of seeing angels, or any other demonstration by G*d.

Declaration: I delight in what G*d is doing rather than dwell on what the devil says He is not doing. I daily hear the sound of His moving and I respond with great delight and joy.

The Joy of the L*rd is Your Strength

Week 3 - Day 15

In Nehemiah 10, Ezra and others read aloud the Book of the Law of Moses. This occurred after the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. It was a very emotional time for those listening, and they started to weep. Nehemiah said, "... this day is holy to our L*rd. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the L*rd is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10).

Samson had a secret to his strength. It was found in the events surrounding his birth and the Nazarite vow he took (which was confirmed by not cutting his hair). It gave him a decisive advantage in life by having supernatural strength. People were astonished at what he could do.

Do we have a secret to our strength? Is there something that gives us unusual vigor and power? Is there something we can tap into that helps move us from "strength to strength"?

Listen to this: "Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, whose heart is set on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a spring; the rain also covers it with pools. They go from strength to strength..." (Psalm 84:5-7). The Valley of Baca is literally the "valley of weeping." A pilgrimage is a journey to a holy place. Supernatural strength will increase to those who move forward on a pilgrimage to transform hopelessness into places of life and joy. This life-attitude of turning our problem into our opportunity will cause us to find strength, and then move us from "strength to strength" in ways that will amaze others and ourselves.

Let's practice joy. We can start by asking G*d for a revelation of the truth that the greatest thing we need is a new way of looking at life. Pray this with me: "Jesus, I ask you to cause me to see Your goodness and Your promises like never before. Help me to celebrate these, even in my Valley of Baca."

Declaration: The joy of the L*rd is my strength. I am increasing in joy daily. It is a secret in my life for endurance and power (spiritual strength). I am going from strength to strength in my life.

Going Deeper Into Joy & Review

Week 2 Day 13 & 14

"The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things.
-Henry Ward Beecher

Health Benefits of Laughter

In 2001 there were two studies that showed that a "good laugh" can strengthen your immune system. In one, which was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, scientist exposed 26 people to allergens which produced allergy symptoms and then let them view a 90-minute Charlie Chaplin film. The allergy symptoms were reduced in all 26 subjects for four hours after the video. The other study published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, looked for an increase in immune function through laughter. 52 healthy men watched an hour-long comedy video. They were measured before, during, and after the video for immunity markers like their T cell counts. It was discovered that just one hour of laughter boosted their immune function for up to 12 hours. Experts say that stress reduction seems to be the key for a stronger immune system, and even a few hearty chuckles a day can do wonders to lower stress. These studies support the belief that laughter can be a good antibiotic and humor can help fight germs.

"And these things we write to you that your joy be full."(1John 1:4)

Day 14 Let's Review What We've Learned

• Read or review of the week's five devotionals
• Read out loud each of the five declarations at the end of the devotionals

Questions

• Which of the five devotionals spoke to you in the greatest way? Why?
• What one sentence from the five devotionals stood out to you the most? Why did this speak to you?
• How did you do with last week's steps to increase your strength through joy?
• What two or three steps can you take this week to move forward in strengthening your life through joy?

The Foreboding Spirit (Murphy's Law)

Week 2 - Day 12

"...put off ...your former conduct ...and be renewed in the spirit of your mind ...that you put on the new man which was created according to G*d, in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:22-24).

The passage speaks of the "spirit of your mind." I believe this is the subconscious part of us that is the driving force of our attitudes and actions. These are strongholds (both positive and negative) that have been established thoughts and words (Romans 10:17). As we pursue "full joy", it is important to know that unchallenged lying thoughts will create and maintain strongholds of the enemy in the spirit of our minds (2 Cor. 10:3-5).

Many have a stronghold of foreboding, which is having a feeling that something bad is going to happen. Those who have this attitude will not experience much joy. It is the opposite of hope and faith. It is "the confident expectation that bad is coming." Those plagued with this are regularly bracing themselves to "have the rug pulled out from under them again."

Murphy's Law seems to be a major pipeline for foreboding. Who was Murphy anyway? His mantra is "whatever can go wrong, will go wrong. If the toast falls on the floor, it will always fall butter side down; or the wind will always blow in the direction of the non-smoker, etc." Murphy's philosophy is "smile, tomorrow will be worse." Obviously there is a lot of "tongue and cheek" humor with this, but many unconsciously believe these "laws". This belief, unfortunately, attracts problems to them and thus reinforces the lies.

We can demolish the foreboding spirit stronghold by:

• confessing it as a sin (1 John 1:9)
• proactively declaring trust that will build positive expectancy (faith) in our lives (Romans 4:17)
• feeding on the materials of faith teachers (Romans 10:17)
• becoming accountable for our thoughts (1 John 1:7)
• persevering in changing our thinking because our experience will catch up to our beliefs (Matthew 9:29)
• laughing when the devil says foreboding lies to us (Psalm 2:1-4)

Declaration: I reject foreboding and embrace hope and joy. I am now building a stronghold of joy in my life.

G*d's Way is the High Way

Week 2 - Day 11

"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:9). G*d's ways are very different than our ways and must be intentionally pursued. "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..." (Romans 12:2)

Proverbs 13:15 states that "the way of the way of the unfaithful is hard." If you want long-term unhappiness, do it your way. Do you want long-term joy? Then, do it G*d's way.

Let's imagine that you ask two people to stand before you. The first has served Jesus all his life with true love, humility, faith, and following the ways of G*d. The second has served the devil from his youth. He has done it his way in regards to relationships, choices, money sex, attitudes, and other areas. How do you think these two would compare? It would be obvious that G*d's ways are a blessing and our ways lead to a curse.

There is "pleasure in sin for a season" (Hebrews 11:25). It may appear that G*d's people are missing out on the "fun" of this world; but deep joy comes through healthy relationships, godly attitudes, wise choices, and an eternal perspective. G*d's joy will far exceed any temporary thrill that comes from doing it our own way. (We are like a car that runs best when the owner's manual is followed. It's dumb to ignore the red light on the dashboard!)

So, do we do it our way or G*d's way? Do we build on the rock or on the sand (Matthew 7:24-27)? The quality of our lives and the quality of our emotions are influenced dramatically by our choices in life. It is the wise person who puts off temporary pleasure for lasting and eternal joy. Jesus "endured the cross for the joy that was set before Him" (Hebrews 12:2). We may have to experience short-term "suffering" (1 Peter 4:1) by committing to purity, honesty, the marriage covenant, forgiveness, ministry to others, and obeying G*d; but the reward will be great for us (and our descendents). Truly, G*d's ways are indescribably good.

Declaration: I love G*d's ways. I build my life on the rock of G*d's word. I obey G*d, and my joy is full as a result.

Serve the L*rd with Gladness (And With Enthusiasm)

Week 2 - Day 10

"Make a joyful shout to the L*rd, all you lands! Serve the L*rd with gladness; come before His presences with singing" (Psalm 100:1-2). This is an amazing portion of Scripture that instructs us to live a life of celebration and joy in our serving Jesus. It is a powerful encouragement and command that neutralizes grumbling.

"Gladly serving" is a catalytic mindset that provides a secret door to our prophetic destiny. On the surface it might not seem that significant, but it is. Whenever we consistently relinquish joy in an assignment from G*d, we have most likely hit the ceiling of our ministry influence. Our gladness level is one indicator of whether we are ready for greater responsiblity and callings.

We are called to minister in faith and love. These qualities are positive forces that generate enthusiasm - which is foundational for gladness. Enthusiasm first appeared in English in 1603 with the meaning "possesseion by a god." The source of the word is Greek 'enthousiasmos,' which ultimately comes from the adjective 'entheos,' "having the god within."

Gladness and enthusiasm are spiritual "muscles" that can be developed to higher levels because they are already resident in us. (The G*d of the universe is both enthusiastic and glad - and He wants to be released through us in all we do.) If we have the habit of "serving the L*rd with grumbling" or without passion, then it may take a while to radically increase joy in ministry (but the effort and journey are worth it).

Here is a keey to help you: Act more glad and enthusiastic than you really feel. As you do so, you will find that your emotions will catch up to your actions. Then your "muscles" of gladness and enthusiasm will grow, and you will increase your influence for Christ (because you have overcome the lies that robbed you of serving our L*rd in faith with joy).

Declaration: I serve the L*rd with gladness. I am enthusiastic about the opportunites to minister in the name of Jesus. I am an increasing joy to those who are around me.

Clean Out Your Pipes

Week 2 - Day 9

Have you ever tasted water that runs through rusty pipes? You are expecting to be refreshed, but there is a taste and after-taste that makes the water less than pleasant to drink. The water is tainted by the vessel it is flowing through. It may be great water, but you would never know it because the channel it went through has polluted it.

In a similar way, truth that flows through unclean "pipes" is harder to receive. This happens when teaching or revelation comes through a life that is stuck in frustration, fear, bitterness, anger, a bad G*d concept, or personal hopelessness. These pipes are a person's life attitudes that affect the purity of the truth presented. The lack of hope and empowering grace are the main symptoms of pipes that need to be cleaned. It should be every person's desire to be a clean pipeline for G-d*.

How then can we keep our pipes untainted so that hope and grace are attached to everything we say? One of the ways is to laugh a lot. Laughter has an amazing way of taking the "spirit of heaviness" off our lives (Isaiah 61:3). Godly humor gives us a new perspective that helps us to see reality rather than the falsehood that supports our unhappiness. our inner trouble is greatly associated with they way we think, and humor can change the way we think. We need to understand that it is not the situation that creates our distress hearty, but it is the conclusions that we place on those situations. Humor adjusts the meaning of our circumstances so that they are not so overwhelming (and so that we can begin to focus on G*d's promises instead of the problem). So let's use regular laughter as a cleansing agent to our spiritual pipes. We (and others) will be glad we did.

Declaration: Hope, love, and grace are attached to everything I say (even when I have to say difficult things). I have pipes that are not tainted or plugged, but they are regularly cleansed through hearty laughter. The joy of the L*rd is not only strength to me, but to others through me.

*It is important to know that a "bad taste" concerning what we hear may result from our own unresolved issues and not just those of the speaker.

400 Laughs a Day

Week 2 - Day 8

"Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in in the midst of them, and said, 'Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven' (Matthew 18:2-4).

Jesus said that we must be converted (changed) and become as little children. We can learn much concerning life attitudes from watching children. There are many attributes that children have which we need to embrace (trust, simplicity, adventuresome, being a dreamer, forgiveness, love, enthusiasm, etc.).

One other characteristic of children that separates them from adults is laughter. I have read in different places that children laugh an average of 400 times a day, while adults laugh only 15 times per day. When people get older, something happens which decreases laughter (and I propose to you that this "something" is not a good thing). Laughter's decline is not rooted in faith or intimacy with G*d; but it comes from stress, "growing up", unbelief, and religious tradition.

I suggest we make it our goal to laugh 400 times a day. It may take us years to reach that level, but at least we will know what our goal is. Some would say such an ambition is ludicrous and unimportant in the big picture of Christian living. I would disagree and say that laughter should be a regular discipline because it will enhance our longevity, health, mental well-being and strength. Hmm, maybe a merry heart is indeed good medicine; and maybe being converted to increasing laughter is a part of what Jesus meant in Matthew 18:2-4. What do you think?

Declaration: I am becoming more like a little child every day. I live in a wonderful world of new adventures and big dreams. I also laugh as little children laugh. I regularly chuckle, giggle, snicker, hoot, snort, guffaw*, chortle**, have hysterics, and double-up in hilarity.

* Guffaw - a loud and raucous laugh
** Chortle - noisy, gleeful laugh

Going Deeper Into Joy

Week 1 - Day 6 & 7

"Resolve to keep happy and your joy shall form an invincible hose against difficulties."
- Helen Keller

Health Benefits of Laughter

Norman Cousins is a "laughter legend" who in 1979 called attention to the medical community of the potential therapeutic effects of humor and laughter. He described his use of laughter during his treatment for ankylosing spondylitis. Because Cousins believed that negative emotions had a negative impact on health, he theorized that the opposite was also true (that positive emotions would have a positive effect on his health). He believed that laughter could open him up to feelings of joy, hope, confidence, and love (and thus to healing and health).

Cousins is probably the best known proponents of using positive emotions to improve health, but he was certainly not the first to assert this relationship. As early as the 1300's, Henri de Mondeville, a professor of surgery, wrote: "Let the surgeon take care to regulate the whole regimen of the patient's life for joy and happiness, allowing his relatives and special friends to cheer him, and by having someone tell him jokes."

The difference now is that we have scientific studies of the relationship between joy and health. Cousins himself spent the last 12 years of his life at the UCLA Medical School in the Department of Behavioral Medicine where he explored the scientific proof and supported clinical research on humor.

Day 7 Let's Review What We've Learned

* Read or review each of the week's five devotionals.
* Read out loud each of the five declarations at the end of the devotionals.

Questions

* Which of the five devotionals spoke to you in the greatest way? Why?
* What one sentence from the five devotionals stood out to you to the most? Why did this speak to you?
* What two or three steps can you take this week to move forward in strengthening your life through joy?

He Who Sits in the Heavens Shall Laugh (Psalm 2:4)

Week 1 - Day 5

What is G*d finding so funny in heaven? "The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the L*rd and against His Anointed, saying, 'Let us break their bonds in pieces and cast away their cords from us.' He who sits in the heavens shall laugh..." (Psalm 2:2-4) G*d is laughing at what His enemies are saying and planning.

This heavenly hilarity becomes personal for us as we pray. "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). If G*d is laughing at what the devil is proclaiming, then we should join our Father here on earth. (Remember, jesus said, "I say to you, the Son can do nothing to Himself, but what He sees the Father do: for whatever He does, the Son also does in like manner" (John 5:19).

The devil is a liar and he is constantly speaking lies that are inconsistent with the promises of G*d (John 8:44; 2 Peter 1:4). Responding to his lies with laughter can be a powerful, liberating experience. I have led many prayer meetings where we ask; "Are you hearing any lies lately that we can laugh with you about?" One by one, people share things like: "G*d won't meet my needs in the future" (ha, ha); "Things are only going to get worse" (ha, ha); "No one gets healed when I pray for them" (ho, ho); "I've sinned too much to be blessed and to enjoy life" (ha, ha); "My city is hard to the gospel" (hee, hee); "G*d has just about had enough of me" (ha, ha); or "I'm stupid and I'm accident prone" (ha, ha). It is amazing therapy to laugh at lies. Try it!

Laughter is obviously not the only weapon that we use against the devil's deceptions and tactics, but it is what the Heavenly Father does; so let's purpose to join Him on a regular basis (and bring a little more of heaven down to earth).

Declaration: I laugh uproariously when I hear a lie from the devil. G*d's promises are ture and the devil's words are false. I am chuckling more and more as I look at Satan's lies from G*d's perspective.

Jesus - Mr. Spock With Long Hair

Week 1 - Day 4

Many people think that Jesus was "robotto" and unemotional. He supposedly "floated" through life with a serenity and restraint that would make Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and John Wayne envious. Some picture Him like Mr. Spock from Star Trek completely devoid of emotions, especially laughter.

Hebrews 1:8 debunks this when it says of Jesus, "... Your G*d, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions." Some would say, "Well, this is speaking of Jesus when He ascended to heaven." I don't believe so (even though a "glad Jesus" in heaven would mess up many people's theology)!

John 15:11 shows that Jesus walked in great joyfulness when on Earth. He said, "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full" (see also John 16:24; 17:13, and 1 John 1:4). It was a big deal to Jesus that we walk like Him in this "full Joy." (And I don't believe for a moment that this gladness was always a quiet, inner joy that looked like Mr. Spock. I believe it was at times noisy, silly, freeing, and made Jesus fun to be with.)

Unlike our Savior, many Christians today are not fun to be with. Jesus was the desired guest at weddings and other events that "sinners" were attending. His joy caused Him to be attractive and have favor in relationships. He set an example for us to not only live in an uncompromising manner in the world, but to do so with joy.

There's one more thing to say about this. It's important to realize that our mental picture concerning the personality of Jesus will dramatically affect our own personality. Religious tradition has practically eliminated true joy from the Jesus we worship. The consequences have been unfortunate for our lives, our churches and for the kingdom. Let's seek G*d afresh and find the joy side of His nature that is so desperately needed today.

Declaration: The Holy Spirit is making me more like Jesus every day. My emotions are getting unlocked and I am experiencing great joy. I laugh heartily every day. My joy causes many to receive hope and to come into the kingdom.

Destination Disease

Week 1 - Day 3
(I need to add that I did not write these devotionals. I got them from Seymour Harvest of Seymour, IN. I believe the worship leader Deborah wrote them. :-) )

"I will be happy when_________ happens." We can fill in the blank with whatever we think is the key for our joy to begin. For example: "I will be joyful when I move out of the house, or when I get married, or when I have children, or when I get more money, or when I get a new home, or when the kids are in school, or when the kids leave home, or when I retire, ore when this circumstance changes, or..."

The "I will be happy when" mindset is called destination disease. This is a malady that plagues multitudes and is rooted in the belief that joy depends on changed circumstances. Certainly circumstances play a role in our positive emotions (we cannot deny the difficulty that life can bring at certain times), but ultimately we need to find inner victory over the giants of discontent and discouragement.

Paul said, "I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound..." (Philippians 4:10-11). He learned to be inwardly successful to matter if he was prospering or if he was in lack.

Paul apparently had a season in his life when he focused on (and was learning about) the development of the inner soul prosperity of being content (3John 2). We too need a time like this in our lives. It will never seem convenient to do so, but it is necessary in order to develop a life of joy.

Here is a truth to ponder: if we are not joyful now, then we will probably not be joyful then (when circumstances change). The root issue is in us, not in our current situations. Let's overcome destination disease and determine today to live in a new level of rejoicing and celebration in G-d's promises. As we do so, we will find our joy becoming a "faith weapon" to change things like never before.

Declaration: I have overcome destination disease. I am learning to be content and joyful now. I am breaking through the lie that says I can only be happy if certain things change. I rejoice now in G-d's goodness and in His promises. I can and will be joyful now.

Feeling Guilty About Being Joyful

Week 1 - Day 2

There is so much pain in the world that it is easy to feel bad or uncomfortable about living joyfully. "After all," we think, "how can I be happy when so many people are struggling?" Usually this conclusion comes from our own thinking, but sometimes it can result from "guilt trips" that others seemingly put on us if we are too happy. We need to recognize though that if we continually curtail our joy and optimism, we are robbing them and ourselves of much-needed aspect of G-d's nature.

Shame can also hinder us from accepting full joy in our lives because we unconsciously believe that we are still unworthy and undeserving of being happy. Like a dripping faucet in the back of our soul, we judge that we deserve to suffer and be punished. This inability to fully accept our forgiveness is a big issue with many people; it blocks blessing and hope for our lives. We need a greater revelation of the Father's love that will uproot this deception that wounds us. (Luke 7:47)

People around us need us to possess joy. By doing so, we are more able to set others free (and leave an inheritance of victory). Our breaking through the lies of the enemy will allow us to impart "the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness" (Isaiah 61:3). We will bring faith to a whole new level in the lives of those we touch.

Of course, there are times we need to be sensitive to the feelings of others and "weep with those who weep", but we cannot let guilt and shame hinder us from possessing outrageous joy for our lives. If we do, then we will be restricting our strength for our journey and our influence for Christ on others. Truly, biblical joy is a catalyst to breakthrough in the kingdom of G-d.

Declaration: I am forgiven. G-d loves me. The resurrection and death of Yeshua has made me worthy and deserving to be happy and blessed. I am sensitive to the needs and emotions of others around me, but I still move forward in rejoicing in the L-rd. My joy increasingly breaks off spirits of discouragement and heaviness all around me.

A Merry Heart Is Good Like a Medicine

Week 1 - Day 1

Imagine being prescribed medication and the pharmacist tells you, "Take this three times a day for ten days and you will get better." Most of us would start taking the medication because we would believe it would work. This faith, mixed with the medication, has helped many get well.

"Dr. G-d" has given us a prescription that has tremendous potential for our strength, health, energy level, longevity, and mental clarity; it's called "a merry heart." Those who heed the "Great Physician" and mix their faith with the joy of the L-rd will start a wonderful journey toward vitality in life.

This book is designed to ignite your joy. Some would object and say, "That's fine for you, but I am not a joyful person." In response to this, please consider two things.

First, can you imagine someone saying, "I can't be loving because I am not a loving person." We would say, "That's ridiculous. We are commanded to love. G-d would never tell us to do something we could not do." (1John 4:7-11). The same principle holds true for you. Each of us has the power and ability to become abundantly joyful. It is a "muscle" that can be developed in our lives.

Secondly, this writer was entrenched in a joyless state that resulted from an "it's not my personality" belief. Instead of using G-d's word to create my identity, I was using my past and my experience to tell me who I was. As I will share later in this book, I was delievered from this bondage and my joy was increased dramatically. It can happen to you too.

Dr. G-d is telling us to take our "good medicine." He is urging us to make joy and laughter a big part of our overall plan for good health for our lives. This spiritual truth is supported by science and recent medical research. So, let's take our medicine. We won't be sorry we did.

Declaration: merry heart is good medicine. I "take" this prescription of joy and laughter daily. As I do, my health and vitality are strenthened.


Please make your comments and let me know how the L-rd is using this devotional in your life.