One of the keys to being joyful and happy in life regardless of our circumstances is honouring and giving thanks for what God has given us right now. Otherwise, we can get caught up in the mindset of, "I'll be happy when," which is a sure-fire way of never being happy or content with our life.
Instead of looking at situations and the people in your life and wishing things were different, look for the positives and blessings you do have rather than the things you don't.
Rather than complaining about your job, workplace, family, church or wherever you spend your time, choose to honour and respect what you do have in these things and remember to be grateful.
The result of honour and gratefulness is that we become more patient, loving, considerate and satisfied in life. We see new opportunities, the silver lining in situations and God's hand at work working all things for our good. An attitude of choosing to be thankful will also lift your expectations and draw good things and people into your life far more than being unhappy with everything all the time.
Plus, God knows we can be trusted with more when we honour and look after what we have. (Galatians 5:6)
"Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. If then, you have not been faithful with worldly wealth, who will entrust you with true riches?" (Luke 16:10-12)
Today think about what you have, and all that God is doing in your midst rather than focusing on those parts of your life that aren't quite as you'd like.
If you feel like nothing good is happening, look to where God has moved in other people's lives and be encouraged to believe for Him to move in yours. As you do, you'll start to see the positives and opportunities, and your faith will go to work as you believe for Him to act out of a place of love and gratitude, rather than fear and negativity.
God in His timing and goodness will answer your requests and move in your circumstances as you keep believing, speaking His word and allowing both faith and patience to work.
"And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful" (Colossians 3:15)
"By faith and patience, we inherit the promises of God ." (Hebrews 6:12)
Prayer: Lord, please help me have eyes to see and a heart to acknowledge all that I have in my life. That I would not spend my time and energy always looking at what I don't have. I honour and give you thanks for everything and everyone in my life today, especially that I can know you. In Jesus name Amen.