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RISING TO MEET THE CHALLENGE TO BE
JOY-FILLED IN TIMES LIKE THESE
by David Hamilton

News stories of late have been particularly disheartening. The Dow Jones Average is at its lowest point in two years, the price of a barrel of oil has topped $140.00, gas prices hover around the $4.00 per gallon mark, and several thousand families will lose their homes this year due to foreclosure. Without question, it is getting harder and harder to make ends meet and to raise a family. Is it any wonder then that many people have become fearful and worried about our society’s current conditions and anxious about the future?

While it is indeed a challenge to be joy-filled in times like these, it is not impossible. Yes, things are difficult right now, but that doesn’t mean we can’t overcome these difficulties by way of possessing the right attitude. The truth of the matter is we can choose to be filled with joy no matter what circumstances we must face in life. We can do this if we will develop the right perspective on life, a perspective that focuses on what blessings we have! We can be filled with joy if we will remember: 1) that we live in the most blessed nation on earth, 2) that God has blessed us with salvation in His Son Jesus, 3) that he has provided us with a loving church family, and 4)that he has given us the means and ability to provide for our family.

If we want to be joy-filled, we must learn to count our blessings! In so doing, we will secure the right attitude in facing our difficulties and thus win the victory over anxiety, worry, and fear.