Image by Cailin Valente
Nehemiah 8:10 2 Corinthians 9:7
There was a time in my life where I thought that I would be a prisoner of my own fears and anxiety. But through some retreats and a lot of prayer, the Lord gave me His strength that helped me to handle my anxieties and fears and brought me out of what I felt were the worst days of my life. It is through that strength that I found the joy that I have now.
After regaining my joy, I paid it forward by serving as a volunteer at the same retreats that I attended. This time of year is a great time to do volunteer work, but if you choose to do so, do it with a cheerful heart and not out of obligation.
I don’t know what kind of year you had, but I’m certain that there are times that God brought you out of the dark. If you feel like you’re still in the dark, know that God is already rescuing you from that. You may not see it, but like the famous Footprints poem, God is carrying you through whatever adversities or trials you are undergoing right now.
One way that we can get out of this dark place is through helping others. When we give ourselves to others, the act of serving gives us a new sense of perspective. We also realize that when we serve others, God is with us.
God is always with us, even as we wait for the day that He comes. I pray that no matter what you’re going through right now, that God will give you strength and lead you to joy. Here’s the good news about right now: You’re already halfway out of the dark.
Study Questions
1.Think of a time when God led you out of the dark? How do you feel like God has changed you from that moment?
2.What are some ways that you can help others who are in need of a little joy during this holiday season?
This year's study journal is broken into 4 parts.
To view each, please scroll to the middle of the above link