We all want to get the most out of life. But discontentment can seep into the most positive personality in subtle ways. Here are three ways to destroy the three W’s of life (Wishing, Worrying, Wasting) and increase your joy in life:
1. Be There
Nothing destroys your joy in life like wishing you were somewhere else, with someone else, doing something else. Discontentment can be a clinging virus you’re unable to shake. Instead of wishing away the time, recognize the value of every moment, every person, every experience. Let Jesus increase your joy and contentment level by just being all there. He can change your perspective in a heartbeat. Be there.
2. Be Aware
Similar to “being there”: enter into the moment or the experience with your full attention, but add a heightened awareness of those around you. Instead of focusing on your own fears, needs, or concerns, ask Jesus to help you see others the way He sees them. Be aware of “joy-busters”: undercover worries that work overtime to steal any joy God has planned for you. Be there. Be aware.
3. Be Rare
Okay, I admit it. I was scrounging for the right rhyming word. But you can actually become one of those rare people who seizes joy in every moment, who refutes negative thoughts, and who destroys discontentment by refusing to waste time wishing or worrying. Time–and people–are precious gifts from God to enjoy. Be there. Be aware. Be rare.
Instead of wishing away the moment, embrace it. Instead of worrying, release your cares to Jesus. And instead of wasting time, welcome every opportunity as a rare gift, giving thanks to God for the treasures you’ll draw from it.
Joy in life really is a choice.
“Don’t squander one bit of this marvelous life God has given us” (2 Corinthians 6:1, MSG).
“I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature” (John 15:11, MSG).
“Make the most of what God gives…the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what’s given and delighting in the work. It’s God’s gift! God deals out joy in the present, in the now” (Ecclesiastes 5:19-20, MSG).
How’s your joy level? Which of these three ways to increase your joy in life is the biggest challenge for you?
