Choose Joy

Lord, how can I choose joy when I feel frustrated or disappointed with life?

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world. Now you are deeply discouraged, but remember me. You hear the tumult of the raging seas as the waves and surging tides sweep over you. But each day I pour my unfailing love upon you, and through each night you sing my songs, praying to me who gives you life.

1 Peter 4:12-13; Psalm 42:6-8

What example from your Word shows how to experience joy even in disappointment?

Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to the people, “Don’t mourn or weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the LORD your God.” For the people had all been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law. And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!”

Nehemiah 8:9-10

What can I pray to rely on your joy as my strength?

Rise up, O LORD, in all your power. With music and singing I celebrate your mighty acts.

Psalm 21:13