What Is the Primary Source for Joyful Living?

Family gatherings, for whatever occasion, elicit expectations that range from happiness and joy to anxiety or even a sense of dread. So much depends on the maturity level of each family member and the degree to which old conflicts and disagreements have been resolved.

Being willing to permit past troubles to remain hidden so peace can abound is possible. Accept the fact that each person has the potential to grow and mature with passing years and responsibilities. Instead of focusing on the past, ask God to help you see the person now before you who has matured.

Remind yourself that joy is found in loving fellowship with family and friends. Joy comes most abundantly in our union with the Lord Jesus Christ, who makes expressions of love and joy possible. Keep your expectations centered on God’s presence in you, so his peace can fill your heart and soul.                     

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Let us come near God with pure hearts and a confidence that comes from having faith. Let’s keep our hearts pure, our consciences free from evil….as we must hold tightly to the hope that we say is ours [in Christ Jesus].

~Hebrews 10:22-23 Contemporary English Version

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