Page 149 - First Steps 2023

Plus, there’s this: They have to stay in step with Jesus, and that re-
quires ongoing, intimate conversations.
If you’d like to deepen your joy, get in the habit of asking, “What
would you have me do now, Jesus?” every time you take a look at your
paycheck and schedule.

• Choose gratitude
Countless studies suggest that happiness and gratitude are closely
related—just Google “happiness” and “gratitude” and prepare to be over-
whelmed. When people take note of positive circumstances and choose
to celebrate them, that’s when their happiness meter climbs higher.
We Jesus-followers can do that—but we can also do more.
We can also find happiness—and joy—in even circumstances that ap-
pear to be difficult. Paul wrote this to believers in Rome:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who
love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans
8:28).

All things—even unexpected car repair bills and hospital visits.
Talk about how people who know you well would describe you when
it comes to expressing gratitude. Is that something you do well and often
or…not?
Give an example of why you answer as you do.

• Experience community
Committing to a faith community allows you to know and be known.
To gain perspective and find support. To give and receive. To serve and
grow.
All of which leads to joy.
Expect to run into the usual mix of people—some who are too busy to
invest in you and some who want nothing more. Some who are sharp and
some who…aren’t.

But there’s a place for you in a faith community.

148