J-O-Y

I think too often I base my attitude on circumstance. Too often, I let the finite and temporary effect my mood or outlook. Why do I do this?

Last week, for example, was a roller coaster of emotion. I got good news, then bad; something given to me, then something taken away; fun new memories made and painful memories recalled. Throughout, I should have been joyful, but I am sad to say I wasn't. It was as basing my mood upon the wind.

Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say

It is well, it is well with my soul.

Where are these words in the throws of my sadness? Where are they in my joy, for that matter? Why do I only focus on them in the times that it's convenient for me?

This week has been fantastic so far. I have been doing well at school; work is fine; I have had the immense privilege of spending time with an absolutely amazing friend. But if that all changes tomorrow, will I still remember that my God is in control? Will I praise Him no matter what, or will I question His judgement? I wish I had more answers than questions. I wish I could, in all faith and honesty, promise you that right now begins a change. But that's between my heart and God, isn't it? I hope that this begins something new. I pray that this is a turning point. I can tell you that I will definitely be seeking God in the coming days and weeks like I haven't been in past months.

Blessed be Your name

When the sun's shinging down on me

When the world's "all as it should be"

Blessed be Your name

And blessed be Your name

On the road marked with suffering

Though there's pain in the offering

Blessed be Your name

Every blessing You pour out

I'll turn back to praise

And when the darkness closes in, Lord

Still I will say...

Blessed be Your name.