Joy = optimism

I heard a speaker yesterday equate Joy with Optimism, and I think that is one of the better definitions of Joy I have heard.

Been thinking on that too.  This Optimism is that the situation will get better.  God will make it better.  More importantly God wants to make it better through us.

This is not a magic act.  God does not sprinkle magical powder and the bad situation goes away.  Nope.

God has shown us and empowers us to make the situation better.  This is Jesus Christ.
It is through us using forgiveness and compassion; mercy and kindness; generosity and humility; it is using Love.
These make bad situations better.  These bring joy.

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