“Every new morning brings new sunshine, new joy, and new hope.”  ― Lailah Gifty Akita

Hope works hand-in-hand with joy. The Websters Dictionary 1828 definition for hope says, “A desire of some good, accompanied with at least a slight expectation of obtaining it, or a belief that it is obtainable…  Hope therefore always gives pleasure or joy.”

Although, the Bible indicates that joy is produced only for those in right standing with God, which is stated in Proverbs 10:28 ESV, “The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish.” Wow! I don’t know about you, but I want to gain joy and not have my hope die!

“Hope is the belief, more or less strong, that joy will come.” ― Sydney Smith 

Let us remember this helpful instruction found in Romans 12:12 ICB, “Be joyful because you have hope. Be patient when trouble comes. Pray at all times.”

No matter the challenge, we should always have hope and joy in every situation. My prayer for each of us is, “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 NIV

Please join me next time as we continue to “focus on joy.”

[Joy is => inner gladness, delight, calm delight, or even rejoicing.]
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Thank you for your time. Be Blessed! LR Maddox
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