Road To Joy Ministries

Look at the ravens. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Luke 12:24 

During this time of unprecedented pandemic, it has amazed me that the wild animals aren’t aware that things are different. The birds sing, the squirrels play, and the deer munch on shoots of grass; they are oblivious to what is going on, while we live a life filled with worry and fear. As I pondered their miraculous day-to-day activities, these verses…

We thank you, O God! We give thanks because you are near. People everywhere tell of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 75:1 

Are you feeling alone during these mandated “shelter-in-place” rules? In these days of social distancing, it can become difficult to not feel isolated, lonely and fearful; we were made for interaction with each other! Fortunately, we can turn to God for comfort and strength because He has promised to always be near. During these times of human physical apartness, remember that God NEVER…

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.  Philippians 4:12-13

What is the secret to being content in every situation? It seems that contentment is not something that comes naturally to us; even the Apostle Paul had to learn it. 

As Paul's faith grew and he talked about Jesus, he experienced…

Have you ever looked in the mirror and gasped when you saw something unattractive hanging from your nose? I had been meeting with a group of women and we had been sharing deeply with each other. If it was there the whole time, they would have been viewing it dangling while staying silent about its presence. As I squirmed with the embarrassment at the thought, I had to take a step back and think about our conversation. It had been rich and Holy Spirit inspired, despite something offensive in my appearance. 

…

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17

It can be refreshing to take something old and make it new again. Remodeling a room in your house or or becoming physically fit and strong can bring new purpose, confidence and definitely new joy. 

Why not apply this concept to your spiritual life? As long as we are willing to expose and repent of our old ugly sin and trust God with our heart, He will make us new again. He can take our old…

As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him."  John 9:1-3

As we sat in the doctor’s office and heard the bone defect diagnosis of my son’s knees, I asked the surgeon if it was my fault.  Had I done something or not eaten the right thing while he was in utero and inadvertently caused…

You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and pleasures of living with you forever.  Psalm 16:11

Do you enjoy spending time with God? Do you make your relationship with Him a priority in your day? Just as for a cherished family member or friend, God desires that we get to know Him and spend time in His presence. Whether we study His Word, talk to Him in prayer, or just be silent and listen, God will honor our time with Him and grant us the joy of His presence. Take time with…

Are you facing a choice and are unsure what to do? Invite God into your decision-making process. Seek His character in the Bible and His direction through prayer. Then, “be still in the presence of the Lord and wait patiently for Him to act” (Psalm 37:7). As you spend time in His presence, He will likely make your next step known.  Whether it is a clear direction or simply a restful peace, may you be filled with God’s joy as you trust in His gift of wisdom and discernment.

Did you miss making a New Year’s Resolution?  It’s never too late; our new beginning can start at any time. All we need is an open heart and a desire to make a change. So, what is it that you’d like to change? Jesus came as the change-maker, the One who can facilitate the most radical new beginnings for us all. He promises that anyone who believes in Him can become a new creation. Wouldn’t it be wonderful for someone to take away our old, flawed self and replace it with a new beginning? It can be done…

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17

What is your dream for a perfect Christmas? Does it include peaceful family gatherings, perfectly prepared food, an amazingly decorated home, white snow on the ground, and Santa’s gifts? It’s interesting what we deem to be important and how often we are not satisfied if the reality doesn’t meet our expectations. As we near the season of Advent, take a few…