James 1:2 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
How are you “Counting It All Joy” in your life? As my faith grows and my spiritual walk deepens, I cannot tell you how many times I say to my clients, “Everything is temporary, so count it all joy.” You can imagine some of the reactions or responses that have resulted upon hearing that statement. For me, counting it all joy is because I know that God has already won the battle. I’ve read the end of the book. The victory brings joy. The battle is not mine.
The things that influence life are lessens in preparation for what is coming. Many years ago, as I sat in the middle of my messes, was I ever once aware that I would be coaching women who have experienced major life shifts? I can wholeheartedly answer that with a profound, “NO, I did not.”
Little did I know that my messes of yesterday, and the new messes of today, are all lessons, preparing me for the plan God has orchestrated. And that plan included me tapping into my messes in order to support other women to renew their strength and develop a new level of life.
Is counting it all joy easy? Is it easy to leave the mess with God, as I believe He is in control? NO. When answers aren’t coming fast enough, when I don’t see the changes I’m expecting or wanting, when I think I can do it better than God, I pick those messes right back up with the intention that I can make it better. NEVER does that work out.
This devotion from Sarah Young’s book Jesus Calling is one I have shared with many. It continues to speak to me when I’m facing messes.
If God showed you all He has planned for you, it would boggle your mind. If you could see the doors He’s going to open, the opportunities that will cross your path, and the people who will show up, you’d be so amazed, excited, and passionate, it would be easy to set your mind for victory.
This is what faith is all about. You got to believe it before you see it. God’s favor is surrounding you like a shield. Every setback is a setup for a comeback. Every bad break, every disappointment, and every person who does you wrong is part of the plan to get you to where you’re supposed to be.
Joy is an attitude. By choosing joy today, what will be added to your life? Be mindful of your attitude and your thoughts. Try joy and change your world.
Let me support you in finding your joy and that renewed strength. Your heart has the ability to rise up. The time is now!
