Thursday, December 13, 2012

Thursday’s Devotion: The Joy of Our Hearts

Modified and used on 12-11-19
Thursday’s Devotion: The Joy of Our Hearts

Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 (NRSV)  This is what I have seen to be good: it is fitting to eat and drink and find enjoyment in all the toil with which one toils under the sun the few days of the life God gives us; for this is our lot.  Likewise all to whom God gives wealth and possessions and whom he enables to enjoy them, and to accept their lot and find enjoyment in their toil—this is the gift of God.  For they will scarcely brood over the days of their lives, because God keeps them occupied with the joy of their hearts.

Yesterday I saw a picture saying on Facebook that I really liked so I reposted it.  This is what it said: “A good life is when you assume nothing, do more, need less, smile often, dream big, laugh a lot, and realize how blessed you are.”  I think that is a wonderful description of the way I would like my life to be. I’m much closer to achieving those things than I used to be.  I certainly acknowledge daily how blessed I am. Still, sometimes I get so involved in the “doing more” that I end up too tired to dream big or laugh and smile.  It’s all about balance and constantly seeking God’s help and direction.  When I considered what scripture to match to a devotional about this quote, the passage from Ecclesiastes immediately came to mind.  It’s one of my favorite Old Testament scriptures.  I can resolve each day to do my best to enjoy the life God has blessed me with and to use my gifts and graces to make it as good as possible for me and for others.  May God keep us occupied with the joy of our hearts!
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Christmas joy,
Paige

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