I have discovered that when I am unhappy or feel I have lost my joy, I am tempted to blame those negative feelings on something that is happening around me. I think many people are the same way.

Looking outward at circumstances or people, instead of inward at our own attitudes can cause us to go around the same mountain again and again, caught in a repetitive cycle.

I now know that when I am unhappy, it is because of some wrong thinking on my part. Even if I am in the midst of negative circumstances, I can stay happy by having right thoughts toward them. If I know the Word of God and have it in my heart and mind, I know what kind of right thoughts I should be thinking.

God has satisfaction, fullness, completeness and joy in mind for us. He wants us to experience abundant life. Fullness comes from being in the center of His will and agreeing with Him through thinking in accordance with His Word.
   
Love God Today: Next time you’re tempted to blame something or someone for your unhappiness, take time to examine your thoughts. How could you think differently? Give it a try, and watch your mood improve!

From the book Love Out Loud by Joyce Meyer. Copyright © 2011 by Joyce Meyer. Published by FaithWords. All rights reserved.