Choosing Joy in 2015

As the new year rolls in, I imagine most people reflect upon their year in some way. And though you may not do the resolutions thing, I think most people think on things they would like to or wish they could change in their life in the coming year.

2014 has been a crazy year that has brought on a lot of change for us.
-We celebrated 4 weddings in our family.
-Josh and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary.

-I finished up nursing school and graduated from college with my bachelor's degree.
-Josh accepted a new Youth Pastor position at FBC Shattuck after 3 years at FBC Buffalo.
-Josh and I moved from Buffalo to Shattuck.
-We bought our first house.
-I accepted my first job as an RN.
-We became an Aunt and Uncle.
-And we went to Disney World!!
 And many many more exciting things along with lots of obstacles.

But amidst the obstacles this Holiday season has very appropriately reminded me how truly blessed I am. When looking back at that list of good things I feel ashamed for ever complaining. But let's just be real and admit that amidst great blessings life can be really trying and confusing and frustrating. It is easier to give into frustrations and throw yourself a pity party, which frankly, I'm pretty good at.
But this new year, I would like to choose joy.

Sure I have other goals. I'd like to lose weight, I'd like to cook more home meals, I'd like to spend more time outside, and I'd like to be less busy. However, if I don't accomplish any of those, I still want to choose joy. If God decides to test me the most in 2015, may joy still be my heart's song. 

"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."

-Romans 15:13

The Bible speaks a lot on the joy of The Lord and how we will receive it when we follow Him. Catch that? We will receive it when we follow Him. To be quite honest that has been my biggest hang up of 2014- I think okay, I've been obedient, now where is my joy and peace. But lately God has been impressing on me that I have felt it lacking, because my faith and trust in Him has been lacking. I guess that's why I believe it is a choice. You believe to let the worry and anxiety go, as truely hard as it is, and to choose to trust and give it to God and therefore choosing joy. 

It will be really hard for me. I wish I was a naturally positive person, but my sinful nature made me into a generally pessimistic and jealous person. But this is my prayer for 2015, that I will let joy consume me more than I do worry, or doubt, or fear, or disappointment. I pray that others see the joy of The Lord in me. 

Even as this holiday season of fun and celebrating comes to an end, it is hard for me not to feel down and sad, but I'm striving for joy. 

I ask for prayers as I seek out joy this year. I pray that your goals for the new year bring you closer to God as well as if there is anything in your life you are seeking prayer for, I'd love to pray for you! 

I hope 2015 is the best year for you yet! 

In His hug, 

Molly