"Hidden Joys"

            Have you had your Joy Juice today?  It may appear to be hiding…but God’s joy is always available.

            In recent days, I’ve been intrigued by the concept of “hidden joy”.  Let me explain my line of thought: We all have times when our hearts seem to be literally breaking; we are devastated by loss and grief.  We don’t feel “joyful” or cheerful; we don’t see much hope because of the tragedy or bleak circumstances that engulf us.  Tears are plentiful; there seems no end to the steady river that runs from our eyes. The burden is heavy.   And then….a friend appears, places his/her arms around us and simply cries with us.  That is a “hidden joy” that we often miss simply because our sorrow is shouting so loudly.

            Friendship is such a gift.  A genuine, faithful relationship proves itself when we go through tough times.  As Proverbs 18:24 indicates, a friend who “sticketh closer than a brother” is of great value.  How blessed we are to have people in our lives that love us regardless of what we do or say; whether we are laughing or crying; even when we are angry and need to vent….THAT is when you recognize your genuine “joy-gift-kind-of-friends”.

            We need that kind of friend….but we also need to BE that kind of friend.  Be someone’s “hidden joy” by sensing their need and being God’s joy-gift deliverer.

          Let's ask God to open the eyes of our hearts to “hidden joys” as we give and receive.