Happiness vs. Joy

     Friday the 13th, 2014 had a full moon, it will be the last time there is a full moon on this date until 2049. I'll remember this day, actually night, as one that I sat up struggling with the Lord. I was questioning Him about my life and my purpose in being on this earth. He showed me the scriptures that reminded me of the Gifts of the Spirit. He took me to the scriptures that noted we are all part of the body of Christ. No one is insignificant, but all are needed to fulfill God's purposes on this earth of salvation of souls into eternal life in heaven.
     Mostly what I'll remember about Friday the 13th, 2014 is that the depression that was weighing so heavily on my mind was a fleshly burden, not a spiritual one. I had no joy, not because my God is not able, but because I was unable to take my eyes off myself and put them squarely on the mercy filled cross of Jesus Christ.
     I was not happy due to my fleshly concerns, worries, and self-focus. But God reminded me that I'm not called to happiness which is based upon my current circumstances, rather I am called to be full of joy, regardless of my circumstances. Joy comes from knowing that my hope is in the Lord and He will carry me through this world's trials and tribulations if I focus on Him and not on me.

Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.