Happiness Vs. Joy
As a child I would spend summers with my grandparents. Of course, they doted on us like grandparents do. I remember one day that I wanted spaghetti for lunch and knew Nana would be happy to fix it for me. I was much surprised to sit down at the table and see a sandwich on my plate. She said, “Shelley, would you like to say the prayer today.” I hatefully responded, “No, Nana, you don’t say thanks for sandwiches.” I wish today I could tell my sweet grandmother I’m sorry. I’m sure she wasn’t upset and probably got a good chuckle from it.
Thinking about that moment I realize the foolishness of a child. I should have been happy to show my appreciation. I had a reason to give thanks. I had food on the table. I was safe. I had a family to share it with. How often do we tie our gratitude to what we receive or if God answers our prayers the way we want? In reality, nothing matters except the sacrifice made for us. We have been rescued from the pit and our feet set on a firm foundation.
I should be able to embrace the concept that though I have nothing, I will rejoice because of what God has done for me. He loves and cares for me. I quote these verses to myself often;
Habakkuk 3:17-19 (NIV)
“Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord,
I will be joyful in God my savior.”
Let’s switch the words to apply to our lives:
Though the car makes weird noises
and my house needs repair.
Though my job is a struggle
and my cabinets are bare.
Though the responsibilities are overwhelming
and my children are challenging,
Yet, I will rejoice in the Lord,
I will be joyful in God my savior.
Happiness is not the same as joy. One is based on your circumstances and outward influences. Joy is a choice. Joy is a decision. It comes from inside, a place that resides because of what God has done for us. No matter what. God is good. God is faithful.
I don’t always succeed in trying to live a life of thankfulness and appreciation, but if I envision myself casting a net of gratitude and hauling in all of my blessings, I shift my perspective. Give it a try. Cast out a huge net like they use in fishing and pull it in slowly, allowing it to grab everything that is good in your life. You might be amazed by what you catch—and find yourself thankful for sandwiches.
