"Though the cherry trees don't blossom and the strawberries don't ripen, though the apples are worm-eaten and the wheat fields stunted, though the sheep pens are sheepless and the cattle barns empty. I'm singing joyful praise to God. I'm turning cartwheels of joy to my Savior God. Counting on God's Rule to prevail. I take heart and gain strength. I run like a deer. I feel like I'm king of the mountain!" Habakkuk 3:17-19 The Message
Rejoicing. The dancing word--Rejoice. Rejoicing is the sacrifice of praise, even when life seems unfair and futile. The Bible encourages us to rejoice in the Lord always. Always rejoice-- even when the garden fails to produce, even when the job market collapses, even when friends forsake us, and even when we are overcome with sickness. Rejoice! Be joyful in God! Praise God that He has promised never to leave or forsake us.
Rejoicing overcomes what we feel like doing, and takes us to a higher place of Faith in God. Our circumstances and feelings are no longer dictating our actions when we rejoice. We are making a choice. We choose happy. Not all of our days will be filled with rejoicing. God's word also says to weep with those who weep. So we know that there will be times of weeping--but joy comes in the morning. Making a habit of smiling, singing, dancing, isn't always easy. We are not the source of our joy and happiness. The only one who can strengthen and give us joy is Jesus. When we turn our eyes on Him, our cup of life becomes full. We then see that circumstances and situations are in His hands and His control and we choose to rejoice! The joy of the Lord is our strength!
Weekend Challenge:
2-Dance on your problems! Write down what you are struggling with on paper, give it to God in prayer---and leave it there.
3-Sing praises to God.
4- Smile frequently!
