I originally posted this post on finding joy amid trials back in July of 2017. As I see and hear what many are experiencing during the corona virus quarantine, I felt I needed to bring this back to the forefront. As I read this post, I find this message to be so true. These are keys to finding joy amid trials and I’m here for it!
Finding Joy Amid Trials
A few years ago I was amid some very difficult times. Many people have asked how I remained so positive and happy through much of this. So, I’m sharing my story of faith and finding joy amid trials in life. This is my motto…
“Enjoy life and share that JOY with others!”
But how do you do that when you feel like your world has fallen apart?
For me it happened in 2009. My husband and I lost our business and numerous properties in the real estate crash. We lost most of our estate. During this time my daughter got married, leaving us empty nesters. This was hard on me and I developed anxiety and depression. I’d been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease in 1990 and it came back with a vengeance around this time, taking a toll on my health. After being in our home for 18 years, we moved and left behind friends and a church community we loved.
My trials piled up as my health was failing, a life I loved was changing, and we were faced with rebuilding our home estate. It was tough, but I believed “I can do hard things”.
How do I keep the smile on my face every day and find joy?
The answer for me was “I BELIEVE” and Believing Helps Me See
I believe in a Heavenly Father who loves me. I know it. I’ve felt His loving arms embrace me at times when I least expected it. He let me know He was there.
I believe in Jesus Christ who shows his love for me by His example and through his atoning sacrifice for me. He will take my burdens upon Himself. I never walk alone. He is beside me and at times carries me.
This is how I’m finding joy amid trials.
2 Corinthians 1:4 speaks of this:
Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
2 Corinthians chapter 1 is a must read. It talks about faith, it speaks of comfort and joy! Through my faith, I am able to SEE. This belief I have has helped me to endure hard times. It’s helped me find joy and share that joy with others.
I still experience trials.
I still battle an autoimmune disease. Some days are really tough, but through my faith and beliefs I’ve been able to enjoy life. There are other things that are essential to our happiness.
Here are 5 things that I believe are essential to our happiness and have helped me in finding joy amid trials:
1. Daily Prayer: Know it. Believe it. Feel it!
“And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” -Matthew 21:22
2. Scriptures and promises made to us through them.
3. Gratitude: Never discount the many blessings we have! Give thanks daily.
4. Share your talents and SERVE others as best you can.
5. Last but not least, Remain POSITIVE. Keep negative thoughts and comments out of your mind and speech. This is a very powerful tool that’s helped increase my happiness immensely!
Thomas Monson said,
So much in life depends on our attitude. The way we choose to see things and respond to others makes all the difference. To do the best we can and then to choose to be happy about our circumstances, whatever they may be, can bring peace and contentment. … We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails. For maximum happiness, peace, and contentment, may we choose a positive attitude.
I love this!
I’m grateful for my trials. I’ve learned much through them.
The things I’ve shared today are real and bring much strength and joy to my life. I know these things can help us find joy amid trials.
Be believing. Be happy. Don’t get discouraged. Things will work out. -Gordon B Hinckley
Currently our estate and business are rebuilding and growing. I’m the happy grandmother of two little darlings. I BELIEVE, and life is good! At inkhappi, I’m grateful to share some of that joy with others while remaining positive.
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What a great post! I totally agree with your five things. Doing those five things can turn a bad day into a good one more than anything else. And these printables are amazing!
Thanks Britney for your kind words. This post makes me want to be better -Hahah! I do believe these things to be true. 🙂
Love this Jeej! I agree- true words. You guys have done amazing at rebuilding since that horrible recession and seem to be so united on all you do. Sad you still have to battle hurting and sickness, but glad everything else has improved… and you have those 2 perfect grands now. As much as you love Brit, I know you’d say it’s totally worth the empty nesting haha! Loves!
Thanks Casey! Once I got used to the empty nesting I LOVED it hahah. I just had kids at my house all the time since about 5th grade on and when it was all over I had to adjust and find other things to devote my time to. And yes, Kirt & I work together very well. I couldn’t do life without him! And my grandbabes are just the dessert to life. I love the. And I love you girl! 🙂
Thank you for sharing your inspiring words and talent.
Thanks Penni! 🙂