Joy.

A friend of mine recently described me as joyful.  That's super cool - who wouldn't want to be described as joyful, to have people look at you and see that?  That brings me joy.  But also confusion.  I don't always feel joyful or happy or excited or optimistic.  It bothers me so much, but it is the truth.  It was especially confusing when he said it because I have been thinking a lot about where I am not finding joy.  Recently, I have been struggling with finding joy in a large area of my life - my research.  Research has become an increasingly important part of my life these past few semesters [and especially this summer] and it so difficult to put so much time and effort into something that I currently can't find much joy in.

But as much stock as I put into my research [or academics or friendships or self], it should not, and will not, compare to the stock that I put in the power of my God.  That's where I should turn for my joy.  I should look on Him and His works and my cup should overflow.  I have the love of my Father, the sacrifice of the Son, the power of the Holy Spirit and so much more - all providing me with joy.  

Looking at my life, I'm sure I could rattle off to you all the things that bring me sadness, hurt, and pain - but I have been blessed beyond comprehension and loved without condition.  I have infinite reasons to sing praises.  I am joyful - may I never cease to show that.

"..yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation."
-Habakkuk 3:18