John 16:16-33 | What am I going to do about it?

I have found for myself and many around me that one of the things that keeps us from joy is being heavily problem focused. We complain and gossip in our prayer requests and then complain and gossip in our prayers. It is not an issue to bring these things before the Lord, but I would encourage us to approach with genuine faith and thankfulness. Joy accompanies a heart of thankfulness.

Imagine for a second that the disciples encounter the risen Jesus. Peter approaches with arms crossed, "Nice party trick, Jesus," he says. Or even, "Hey thanks for that." Do you expect that to be the model for genuine joy? No. Instead, what do we see? We see Peter on a boat fishing when a man on the shore calls out to him to fish the other side. When Peter does so, his net is filled to the bursting. Having a moment of realization, Peter puts his cloak on and dives into the water to rush to Jesus with all zeal and fervor. He is overcome with joy and an attitude of thankfulness.

Is my life marked with praise and thankfulness? Do I rejoice in the Lord and the work He has accomplished? Do I just bring my problems to Him and that is the extent of our relationship? If the latter is true, no wonder joy is lacking. A quick and simple move that allows for joy to fill my life is simply practicing thankfulness. I will believe He has overcome the world and rejoice in His victory.

What application are you implementing?