Life isn't easy, you know? There's hard things to work through, difficult people to deal with, and pain that you have to endure.
But lately, even though my circumstances, questions, or unknowns haven't changed, my heart feels so light. I'm more than content and joyful. Tears spring to my eyes when I think about how insanely good the God I serve is. My soul feels like the sun is shining on it, warm and safe and alive. The littlest things make me the happiest; tucking my comforter into my headboard to make a makeshift fort to sleep in at night, reading my Bible outside, the perfect song, being still. I'm so grateful for all those small, beautiful, meaningful things, even though they aren't the things that would seem fun or impressive to anyone else except for me.
I wish I could take this joy and bundle it up and send it right through the screen. I wish I could write a list of five things to do to find this contentment, but I can't do either of those things - it wouldn't satisfy. And as I'm writing this, I'm trying to figure out how I can encourage you, maybe even guide you, and I don't know any other way than to tell you what I've been doing a little bit different lately.
I'm listening to Jesus, really and truly, just like you would listen to a friend. I'm being still. I'm learning how to lean into the hard emotions. I'm working on not comparing my life to anyone else's. I'm trying to be more intentional with the way I spend my time, and being okay understanding that that doesn't have to look like how everyone else is spending their time. I'm wrestling with what actually fills my soul and the heart stuff that I've shoved down for too long. I'm working on forgiving and believing who Jesus has declared I am.
But mainly, I'm listening to Jesus.
When I listen to Jesus, I realize I don't have to figure it all out; I'm perfectly safe and not alone in the in-between and unknown places. When I listen to Jesus, the lies I tell myself are struck down, because in Him, I find truth that covers every single lie. When I listen to Jesus, I find guidance and next steps; instead of trying to plan it out myself, craft a careful solution, the King of kings is leading me through all of the big and little things. When I listen to Jesus, I'm filled with joy and peace unlike anything I could possibly describe.
And I think that this must be the epitome of a good life.
The intimacy, the peace, the contentment, the joy, the strength, the wisdom that can only be found when I listen to Jesus - that is priceless. It's changed my mindset, my heart, my whole life.
So friend, if you're feeling a little lost, a little empty, no matter what it is, bring it to Jesus. Pour it all out to Jesus, and then, listen.
Be quiet. Still your mind. Turn off the music, the distractions, and make space to hear the Father's voice. It may not be loud, it may not come immediately, and it might not be what you want to hear, but He will speak. He will make His presence known to you, guide you, and fill your soul with the brightest joy, because that is what He does. And when we seek Him, we will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13).
It's not found anywhere else. There aren't any quick tips to be happy. There's no substitute for the abundant life found in the Lord. There's no better source of wisdom or strength or peace. It's Him. It always has been and always will be.
May I pray over you?
Jesus, thank You for the person reading this post. I pray over his or her heart, Father, and I ask that You would wrap Your loving arms around them, just as You have to me. Please help them to be aware of Your presence in a new way and hear Your voice. Teach them, Father, how to be still, how to listen, and how to receive all the goodness You have promised to us. I know that You are good, and I trust that You are doing a good thing in their life. I love You. Amen.
I think that this world has been chasing happiness, joy, and contentment in all the wrong places. It doesn't come from succeeding, making a lot of money, having an active social life, or finding your forever person - it comes from Jesus, and it is only in Him that we can find complete satisfaction. And when we understand that, our entire lives begin to change because we are finally being filled by the One who brings life instead of chasing after life in things that ultimately only drain us.
How have you seen this true in your own life? Have you seen it true? I'd love to hear down in the comments below!
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