Total honesty coming out right now, I have been depressed. I know some of it has to do with my hormonal imbalances with my hypothyroidism and PCOS. I know some of it has to do with the trouble my marriage encountered in 2015. Some of the depression I can’t explain. I do know that I hate the person I become when I am feeling depressed. I shut people out, including those in my family and church. I don’t go out with friends. I don’t do the things I enjoy like going to the beach and crafts. I know that is not the life God wants for me. Jesus said, “The thief comes not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10. I want a joyful life.
Word of 2016: JOY
I am not making resolutions/goals this year. I want to concentrate on JOY! Rediscovering the joy of my salvation, finding joy in friendships (hopefully finding new ones since I have few friends), finding joy in my marriage, finding joy in my health and body image, and finding joy in the small moments that make life awesome!
When I was in college I wrote a paper on the difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is determined by the circumstances. Joy is found in your heart and is not dependent on what is going on around you. Paul had joy even though he endured more hardships than I can fathom. Paul said, “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry,whether living in plenty or in want.” Philippians 4:12.
Thankfully, I am hoping to be on health insurance in early February. That is going to help some, but I know I have more depression than my hormonal imbalances can take credit for. I am missing joy. I want to find it again in 2016.
How about you? Did you miss out on joy in 2015. Rediscover joy in 2016 with me. I plan on doing some joy word studies in the Bible and looking at several women in the Bible who seemed to live a life that shouted that they are joyful. I would love if you joined me. Be sure to follow me on Instagram as I attempt to take a picture a day of something that gives me joy.
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