Please help me become a better example of spiritual joy!!!

You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.

—1 Thessalonians 1:6

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

We find it so easy to let our circumstances determine our moods. Paul reminds this group of new Christians under attack, that their new life in Christ had brought them joy despite the outwardly harsh circumstances they were facing. Their joy was not the fleeting, circumstance determined, veneer. Instead, they had welcomed the powerful message of salvation with joy! This joy was not dependent upon their circumstances. It was rooted in their Savior's example and in his abiding presence through the Holy Spirit.

My Prayer...

Dear heavenly Father, please make my joy immune to outward circumstances and please empower that joy by your Holy Spirit. Please bless me as I seek to conform my life and attitude to the example of my Savior. Please help me become a better example of spiritual joy to those around me. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.