JOY

Larkin and I just got back from small group bible study. We have been going to church at The Orchard in Tupelo and we decided to join a small group. They don't have Sunday School, but they put alot of emphasis on these groups. SO after visiting different churches in Booneville & Tupelo I think this is where we have ended up. We look forward to going every Sunday...we hate to miss....it's been such a blessing.

We are reading the book of Philippians in bible study and discussed the first chapter tonight. The theme, as many of you know, is joy. Having joy is something I always want to have, but I admit that sometimes my joy is dependent on my circumstances. I am slowly but surely learning that is not where true joy comes from. Of course, we can be happy from the good happenings in our life but that's different. I pray often that no matter what I may be facing or going through that it would not take away my joy. I want to have joy in all circumstances...good and bad. Of course, some things can rob me of my joy...like when I worry...but I am working on that :)

I am looking forward to going through the rest of the book and onto my all-time favorite verse....the one I have probably said to myself a million times in my life and will probably say two million more..."Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, through prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God, and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."

May we all have a little more joy in our hearts because we CAN!