Freely Speaking with Marge

If the name Marie Kondo sounds familiar, it should. She is a very famous lady who helps people declutter their lives. She suggests you take everything out of your closet and touch one article of clothing at a time. If it does not bring joy, give it to Goodwill or take it to the resale shop.

While I think it is a great idea to declutter periodically, I don’t believe touching and sniffing an old piece of clothing will bring joy. Sometimes I think we equate happiness with joy. Happiness is buying a new pair of shoes, stroking a puppy, or being with your grandchildren and other family members. Joy is a deep sensation of knowing that God is working everything for your good, even in difficult times.

The Bible says, “Until now, you have asked nothing in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete" (John 16:24 NIV).

Some read that verse, then stop after “ask and you will receive.” Sometimes we see this scripture as God being a genie in a bottle who will grant every wish for us because we follow Jesus. But the truth of this verse is that when we ask God, He gives us spiritual blessings as well as financial blessings. When we realize it all comes from Him, we are full of joy.

I once heard a preacher say that JOY is an acronym for
Jesus
Others
You
If we put priorities in that order, joy will follow.

Have you experienced the joy of the Lord? If not, reach out to the leaders of OHSOFREE, and we can help guide you to that deep inner joy.