Joy is one of the most fragrant flowers that blooms in the heart of a Christian. Planted by our Heavenly Father, it brings a song to our lips and a smile to our faces. The joy of the Lord can strengthen us when we’re weary and encourage us when we’re feeling down. Yet, if we’re not careful, this joy can be stolen.
Here are 4 things that can steal your joy.
1. Anger
“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:”
Ephesians 4:26
When we face conflict, we can easily respond with anger. It’s not necessarily a sin to FEEL angry. But we start to sin when we speak or act sinfully. Perhaps we yell at someone or call them names. Or maybe we give someone “the silent treatment.”
These are not healthy ways to deal with conflict in our lives. Instead, we need to speak the truth in love. And we need to work together to find a solution. Join us at the local church’s prison ministry to learn more.
When we don’t take care of anger right away, it festers and grows in our soul. And it definitely steals our joy!
2. Unthankfulness
“Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful…”
Romans 1:21
Sometimes, we feel dissatisfied with what God has given us. We compare our circumstances to others’ and wonder, “Why did God bless them and not me?”
But the truth is that God has blessed each of us far more than we deserve. He has given us the precious gift of life. Even better, He gives us the opportunity to become His child by simply repenting and believing on Him. Every good thing in our lives is a blessing straight from His hand (James 1:17)
If you are struggling with unthankfulness, get a pen and paper and write down at least 15 things God has given you. Start giving thanks, and you will soon start to feel joyful!
3. Bitterness
“Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;”
Hebrews 12:15
If we hold onto anger for too long, it can turn into bitterness. Bitterness is resentment and anger at being mistreated. Although we usually think bitterness is against people, it’s really against God for allowing bad things to happen.
Bitterness will suck joy out of your soul like nothing else can. If you’re struggling with bitterness, contact us at the local church’s prison ministry for counselling. Bitterness is a serious issue, and you need to deal with it right away.
(If you live outside of Saskatchewan, contact the nearest independent fundamental Baptist church instead.)
4. Worry
“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”
1 Peter 5:7
If you’re breathing, you’ve probably experienced worry at some time or another. For some people, worry is their constant companion, while others are less prone to it. Worry steals our joy and clouds our focus.
At its root, worry is basically saying, “God can’t handle this problem. It’s all up to me. I NEED to worry about this.” This is a slap in God’s face.
Didn’t He create us? Isn’t He the One who sustains the universe (and our own lives)? Nothing is too hard for Him.
Instead of worrying, we need to let go of the reins and trust God. Things might not turn out as we hope, but God is still good. Don’t let worry steal your joy.
Let’s Chat:
Which of these “joy-thieves” has been the biggest struggle for you? Let us know in the comments! With God’s help, you can overcome them and experience true joy.
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Are you searching? Jesus has the answers for addictions and stubborn habits. For more information, send the Crossmans a private message here on Facebook or come to a church service at Prince Albert Baptist Church. Take the first step in a walk of freedom!
For more information, call (306) 940-9554 or email anchorofhopeheb@gmail.com
