1. SEEK AUTHENTIC JOY
There is one thing that everyone wants- and that is joy! We all say
that we want to be happy, when what we really want is joy.
Happiness is for the moment with the given situation. Joy is a state
of mind, heart and being that we can carry with us anywhere to,
and in any situation.
Have you ever wanted something or wanted to go somewhere
really badly? You felt as if once I get ____ or go to ____, I will be so
happy. I can’t wait until God gives me this new job or new car, etc…
Only to find out that once you get it, it’s not what you expected
that it would be or the direct happiness from it is short lived. Next
we’re on to the next thing or goal that we desire. Complaining
about the other thing that is slightly less annoying than the
problem just solved.

2. Joy is different. Joy is in your belly. It is that appreciation and
gratitude that resounds inside. It’s that steady contentment that
never goes away no matter how much the people at work annoy
you or whatever disappointments may come.
In order to get that real joy, authentic joy we have to look to God
when living our lives. A relationship with God allows us to realize
that there is someone who is taking care of us and has our back in
any situation. A relationship with God will lead us to follow His
direction and go after what is good for us.
A relationship with God gives us peace. Peace in knowing that we
are doing what we are supposed to be doing and have what we are
supposed to have. Peace is a prerequisite to joy.

3. We can have happy moments without peace, but we
cannot have sustained joy without having peace in
knowing that we are on a path that will have eternal
meaning vs. a short lived celebration. Only God can
provide authentic joy that lasts forever.
P.S. Before you make any more goals, pray to God to
ensure that what you think is best for you truly is.
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