Nehemiah 8:10, "...the joy of the Lord is your strength."

Think

Certain people are "life of the party" people. The mood changes when they walk into a room and their confidence is contagious. They have a zest for life and love encouraging others to do the same. So what is this "it" factor, this special ingredient that draws others to them? The answer: Jesus! Because they have a personal relationship with God they exude his joy and reflect his nature. Sadly, though, many people are searching for satisfaction in all the wrong places. Unlike happiness, joy isn't circumstantial; it's the soul-satisfying confidence that comes from knowing God is always with us and always for us. This doesn't mean we'll have trouble-free lives. But it does mean, that through it all, we have the ability to see past what's happening and trust that God in control. You, too, can be the life of the party. If you have accepted Jesus into your heart, his outrageous, contagious joy is on tap 24/7. So, no matter what life brings, nothing can take away your joy! You can't lose it, so use it to make a difference!

Act

As you get ready to take on the day, keep Nehemiah 8:10 at the forefront of your mind. And be sure to share some outrageous, contagious joy wherever you go. Remember, you are the life of the party!

Pray

Dear Lord, I delight in you. The mere mention of your name makes me smile. Thank you for your overwhelming goodness and the joy you have produced in my life. Today, may your light shine through me and your joy be ever-present within every encounter and conversation I have with others. In Jesus' name, Amen.