About the Author

At (in)courage, we empower women to be like Jesus. Our writers share what’s going on in their life and how God’s right in the middle of it. They bring their joys & struggles so that you can feel less alone and be empowered by the hope Jesus gives.

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(in)side DaySpring:
things we love
& you will too!
Find more at
DaySpring.com
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  1. “I wonder if the way we live makes a life with Jesus look like a joyous adventure or an unhappy religion?”~ Food for thought!!

    Thank you Stephanie for sharing. We will keep depending on God for Joy Joy Joy!

    Matthew 5:16, NIV In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

    Amen!

  2. “Rejoice in the Lord always” and “Remember the wonders God has performed” -answered prayers, unexpected provisions, resolution of problems. Two reminders I so needed in my life today. God IS faithful and I need to focus on Him and not my circumstances. Thank you!

  3. Thank you for sharing such a relevant piece! I absolutely agree with you and am convicted as well. Matthew 5:16 comes to mind immediately. This is a message Christ followers need to hear.

  4. So I’m curious as to how you do this practically? I’ve been a Christian for a long time but I still don’t understand how you’re supposed to sustain this joy you’re speaking of. It seems elusive to me, and Christians can’t seem to explain it to me.

    • This is such a great question and a real struggle for us all. First, I want to clarify that joy is not happiness. My own definition of joy is to be able to focus on the sacrifice that Jesus has made on my behalf because I am dearly loved no matter the situation I face. Joy is choosing to allow for the Holy Spirit to give me His insight & vision, peace & contentment in all things, so I can have a contagious smile and live in a loving manner as best I can. I also know the freedom God provides through a thriving relationship with Him, gives me a joy that begins to impact my outlook. Joy is definitely a gift as we grow in Him and not always easy. I have to choose joy by the moment.

  5. Stephanie,

    We need to live like we have joy in our lives even & especially in trials. The world is watching us to see how we react to trials & tribulations. If we smile & take life with a grain of salt then they will wonder & begin to question us. That is the one way we can lead others to Christ like you did. Sure life is hard sometimes, but we need to wake up thankful for another day & all the blessings we have. Great wisdom!!

    Blessings 🙂

  6. I am a women of great, great faith, it has gotten me thru horrific circumstances that many could never imagine, but I do embrace my God given emotions when they arise. He gave us all the emotions for us to feel. Greatful-Thankful-Blessed by our Lord and Savior!