“What has happened to all your joy?” Galatians 4:15, NIV

I just finished my first run in over a week.  It wasn’t pretty.  I finished out of breath and a little sore.  On top of that I was parched.  I headed straight for the fridge and pulled out a Coke.

FALSE!  Not even a little bit true. 

When I finish a long run I head for a glass of water, not Coke.  Coke dehydrates.  As good as it might taste with pizza, it does absolutely nothing to restore my body or quench my thirst after a run.  I know that.

I also know that when I have a bad day and I’m feeling bummed, the temptation is to turn to eating, shopping, T.V., phone calls, and even exercise to relieve my mood and restore my joy.  Something in my brain says, “If you can just head to Sonic and get a Route 44 Diet Coke, you will FEEL better.  I’ll be happier, more content… I’ll find my joy.”  But like grabbing a Coke after my run, it just doesn’t seem to work.

But here’s what the Bible has to say… here is God’s RX for joy.

God’s Love
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” John 15:9-11, NIV

God’s Presence
“You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.”  Acts 2:28, NIV

God’s Word
“When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, 
for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty.” Jeremiah 15:16, NIV

So go fill your prescription.  Spend some time with the Lord today and let Him give you joy that is so much deeper, richer and fuller than anything money can buy!

Need somewhere to start reading?  Check out this passage.

Following and listening,
Ginger