Our daughter Shara Rose has a birthday this week and also released her latest song called "Hold On" today which means we are busy celebrating in our house this week.
(Listen to Hold on" here or all other platforms) https://open.spotify.com/artist/3aKPf4WEFF55z0arm3D3Xl
As we found ways to celebrate this week I was challenged about having an attitude and mindset that chooses, regardless of any dramas, worries, pressures, or life’s challenges, to give everything into God's capable hands and to celebrate every single day like it's a special occasion.
Life is a gift from God, who actually wants us to enjoy our time here. He repeatedly says in the bible to rejoice, and then to rejoice some more; to not waste our days fretting and worrying, and to hand all our worries over to Him so He can help us. As a result, as we trust Him with every detail of our life it becomes easier to choose joy instead of focusing on the negatives and to activate our faith for good things to happen in our and others' lives.
As the great preacher Charles Spurgeon once said, "It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy that makes happiness."
So why not celebrate like it's your birthday, or some other special occasion today? Your life is a gift and you are worth it!
I encourage you to consciously make an effort to give all your cares to Jesus (1 Peter 5:7). Refuse to allow momentary things to bother you because God has your back and is busy working all things together for your good. (Romans 8:28)
Expect good things and actually plan to celebrate the day in some way. Give your worries and hurts over to Jesus; declare the promises in His Word over your life, count your blessings and then go and find at least one way today to celebrate your life and those you share it with.
“Celebrate Him all day long, every day. I mean revel in Him….don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praise shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Jesus displaces worry at the centre of your life.” (Philippians 4:4-7 The Message)
Jesus said, "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 25:11)
“The thief comes only in order to steal, kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). (John 10:10 Amp)
“This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it”.(Psalm 118:24)
“The more you celebrate your life, the more there is to celebrate.” (O. Winfrey)
Prayer: I’m choosing to find joy and a reason to celebrate today. Thank you Lord for the blessings in my life; for walking with me every step of the journey and that you make all things work together for good. Please help me learn how to celebrate, and find a reason every single day to rejoice in the day you have given me. In Jesus name Amen.