"Be Joyful in Hope"

            Have you had your Joy Juice today?  God’s grace comes with a sweet serving of joy.

            Witnessing the flood damage in Baton Rouge, Louisiana recently was an eye-opening, heart-tenderizing experience. Each person on our Disaster Response team was touched by the gratitude and genuine joy which exuded from those we were honored to help. Even in that bleak situation when things might have seemed hopeless to some, we met many who had a smile on their faces. 

•  A smile of gratitude for God sending “help”.

• A smile of hope, knowing that the clean-up and rebuilding process had begun.

• A smile of love for strangers who instantly become brothers and sisters.

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Isn’t it incredible how God does that?  When people love the Lord, they see evidence of His joy scattered throughout the tough challenges. They put their faith and hope and trust in HIM, rather than in worldly things. And in when they do, the peace of God transcends. Hearts are strengthened, perseverance takes over; and love for others becomes a precious “joy jewel” that is obviously a blessing from God.

Scripture tells us in Romans 12:12: “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”   Our faith will be tested.  Let’s determine to call upon the Lord at all times and remember that His grace is sufficient!

    Please join me in praying for those affected by disaster…. that they will trust in the Lord and “be joyful in hope”.