Life is going to throw us curves. There will be disappointments, things that aren’t fair. That’s when you have to say, “Yet will I rejoice in The Lord.”
We should make this decision every morning, “I will be joyful today.”
Decide ahead of time that you’re going to enjoy that day.
When people dump things on you, keep your lid on. Don’t let that get in you. When you’re tempted to get upset, frustrated, angry… remind yourself that you have the power to remain calm. Keep it in perspective; this day is a gift. Every Day Is A Gift From God – Every Day Under The Sun Is A Gift From God! Bible Verses For Reflection: James 1:17, NIV Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. Honor God by living it grateful, happy, and to the full.
This is the day the Lord has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24, NKJV
I get busy. I forget. I take for granted. What? That today is a gift. A gift from God. There will never be another today—unique and full of possibilities. Will I rush through on my way to the next activity or will I drink it in, like a cool glass of lemonade on a hot summer day? Delicious. Soothing. Refreshing. Yes, some days I wish were over due to stress, strife and pain. But even on bad days, how can I receive the gift of life and learn how to better live life? How can I become less enslaved from self and more and more set free to love others. How can I live today for God?
Here are some ways to enjoy the gift of today:
Thank The Giver
“Thank You Lord for giving me the gift of today.” This might be a good prayer to start our day. Gratitude has a way of getting us into the right frame of mind. Before we complain about what’s wrong, we can thank God for what’s right, and not surprisingly, what’s wrong diminishes in importance. Think about the extent of our Heavenly Father’s Love as He prepared for us the beauty of today. A radiant sunrise. A cool morning. Brilliant flowers. A chorus of birds awakening the day. A healthy body. A clear mind. An affectionate heart. When we take time to thank God for the gift of today—we live for today, asking for wisdom and Love to give away.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in The Name of The Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God The Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17).
Celebrate Today
Joy and gladness are natural outcomes of a Christ-centered life, living in the moment. Not demanding more out of life, but celebrating the fruit of an abundant life: love, peace, joy, healing, service and fulfillment. A hug of happiness, a tear of empathy, a word of encouragement, a look of love, an affirming pat on the back or a generous gratuity all flow out of a heart celebrating the gift of today. A celebration today lets go of past regrets and future fears. A celebration of the Lord’s incredible generosity and Love feeds our soul with hope and peace.
“But may all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; may those who long for Your saving help always say, “The Lord is GREAT” Psalm 70:4!
Rest In Reassurance
When you live for today, you are free to not strive in your own strength, but to rest in Rhe Holy Spirit’s power. For example, the financial need you might be facing can be easily handled by the owner of all you have—your Creator of today and security for tomorrow—Almighty God. A soul at rest is able to shift the need for a solution to the ultimate problem Solver and the all wise One, your Heavenly Father. Your feelings of loneliness can be filled by the Lover of your soul—Jesus. Rest in the reassurance of God’s gift of today. Unwrap His present of perfect Love brimming with innovative ideas, exciting experiences and fulfilling relationships, yet to be discovered today.
“For anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from His” (Hebrews 4:10).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I praise You for the gift of today and celebrate Your abundant Love and generosity, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.