Reclaiming Joy

Can I be honest? Sometimes life just seems like a series of to-do lists. There’s the work to-do list. The home to-do list. The kids’ to-do list. The school to-do list. The activities to-do list.  

As a person who likes to be productive and check the boxes on the various lists, joy can sometimes be elusive.   

What about you? Are you joyful about the work you are doing? Are you energized and excited about the work God has invited you to be a part of? Or, have you lost sight of the big picture?  

I’d like to share some insights I’ve recently gained which have helped me refresh, renew and reclaim joy. 

1. Gratitude. How many times do you stop long enough to be thankful? God has put you where you are at this moment in time. Life isn’t perfect, but it is a gift. You have a purpose and God isn’t done with you. So look around and be thankful – for the work you are called to do, the causes you get to invest in, the people you minister to, and the world you live in.  
2.  Trust. Several years ago, my father was diagnosed with aggressive cancer. It was that diagnosis which caused me to really press into God and His provision. He provided a wonderful support network, great doctors and care, and a clinical trial. Our family had to trust and take the next step. It’s not so different in ministry development. We make plans for the ministry and we trust God will provide the investors and the operational expertise to reach the goal.  
3. Expectancy. Are you watching for God to do something big? Are you expecting Him to work through your ministry to help solve the problem your ministry is focused on? What about in your role? Are you expecting God to use you to minister to others – clients and donors? How different would your work look if you were more hopeful, more expectant?  

 As I look forward to the rest of 2019, I’m reminded of the great work I get to be a part of here at The Signatry. I get to watch God’s work and His resources connect. I get to see people live more generously. I get to help ministries serve donors well. I am thankful to do this work. I trust God will provide the resources for the amazing ministries I interact with. I am expectant that God will do great things through families, advisors, and ministries as we together seek to expand the Kingdom.