JOY LIST

GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS

365 DEVOTIONS FROM OUR DAILY BREAD

JOY LIST

READ:  JOHN 15:9-17

These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you,

and that your joy may be full.  John 15:11

Writer C. W. Metcalf was working as a hospice volunteer when he met thirteen-year-old Chuck, who was terminally ill.  One day Chuck gave Metcalf half a dozen sheets of paper with writing on both sides and said, “I want you to give this to my mom and dad after I die.  It’s a list of all the fun we had, all the times we laughed.”  Metcalf was amazed that this young boy on the verge of death was thinking about the well-being of others.

Metcalf delivered the list.  Years later he decided to make a list of his own.  Surprisingly, he found it difficult at first to compile his “joy list.”  But as he began looking each day for the moments of laughter, satisfaction, and joy, his list began to grow.

Any joy list that we compile will no doubt include many references to the presence and power of Jesus Christ.  No matter what our circumstances, joy is His gracious gift to all who trust Him.  Even as Jesus faced the cross, He looked beyond it’s agony to the glad result of His sacrifice.  He told his disciples, “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11).

Why not begin your own joy list today?  It can be a good reminder of the Lord’s faithful love and the gladness of heart He brings.   DCM

Because life’s circumstances change,

Our happiness may not remain;

But if we’re walking with the Lord,

Our inner joy He will sustain. -Sper

To multiply your joy, count your blessings.