Can you Find Joy in the Mundane?

Today at Faithlifts, Heather shared her hectic morning and how easy it is for her to lose her joy due to the business of life. I know this feeling all too well. Unfortunately I’ve been born with (or acquired) a negativity gene. The glass is half empty syndrome. For me joy doesn’t come naturally. I have to work at it. I have to remind myself to be joyful and count my blessings. Bottom line, I have to take my mind off myself and what I don’t have and open my eyes to the blessings before me.

Discussion: How awesome would it be if today, in our daily life, our entire city could hear our rejoicing from far away! In what areas of your own life do you recognize lack of joy and thanksgiving? Is your heart joyful in the everyday mundane stuff?

Confession time. I don’t usually enjoy my children. I absolutely love and cherish them, but taking care of their needs drains the joy out of me.

Why I was granted four high-spirited, high-maintenance kids is a mystery? And I fear the answer may have more to do with God wanting to do a work in me, rather than Him believing I can handle them.

Walking in a spirit of joy is a daily challenge for me, but during the quiet, stress free times of parenting (usually minutes before my kids fall asleep) I can’t help but marvel in the blessings of my children.

Grace’s giggle and carefree spirit.
Timmy’s affection and easy going temperament.
Joey’s inquisitiveness and thoughtful heart.
Chris’ compassion and musical talent.

On some days I have to search real hard to find the blessings of parenthood, other times it’s right there in front of my face. All I have to do is slow down, let the dishes pile up and open my eyes to see it!