“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4

As said by a close friend, “Joy is both a privilege and a duty. We aren’t to sit around waiting for our circumstances to make us joyful, we are commanded to be joyful always!”

God puts us in many different situations in order to help us grow. From my experience, I can easily say that God’s plan doesn’t always match my plan. And when this happens, I have two choices 1)put on my princess crown and throw a fit or 2)open my eyes to the glory of God and rejoice in the growth.

“Whether we are doing good or not, whether the desires of our heart are fulfilled or not, the root of our joy should be based on the fact that our names are written in heaven!” said awesome inspirational friend.

God promises us so much more than this life. It’s hard to see our bright futures when our eyes are fixed on the mess in front of us. Take a step back and look at all the beautiful things around you. Now imagine something a million times more beautiful. What we imagine is just a fraction of what God really promises.

“Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.” – Luke 10:20