FEBRUARY 15
THE JOY OF THE LORD IS MINE TODAY
Thou wilt shew me the path of life; in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
Psalm 16:11
Self-pity is the indication of an egocentric mind. This common error should be treated primarily as definitely as we would treat a disease. Actually, it is a temporary illness of the consciousness. Its cure is to realize that the only way the joy of the Spirit can function in our world is by functioning from a point within us. We cannot experience joy around us, until we have created it within us. God is the joy and zest of life. His Presence within and around us is forever calling our attention to the happiness of living the abundant life. Too much thinking in personal terms causes us to start sympathizing with ourselves. It is easy to describe the hurts and offenses that are offered us, and to inwardly build them into false judgments of people and conditions. But no one destroys our joy but ourselves, and no one creates our joy for us. God’s Spirit within is the cause and the producer of our happiness.
The fullness of joy is for me this day, because I love God and appreciate His Spirit in my fellowman. There is no self-pity in my consciousness. I believe that the joy of the Lord is within me, and I saturate my thinking with it this day. I have happiness in my heart and joy in my soul. I laugh and live in peace. I give joy to all whom I meet. I speak only of those things which bring joy to my friends and happiness to myself. I see my present world as heaven. I see my present family, friends and co-workers as spiritual beings. I see God everywhere, and my joy is full. I give thanks to the unfailing Presence of God for this joy in my life.
