Being a Joy Rider AND a Joy Writer

I had just written in my journal, when the thought came to me (I like to think it was God’s voice) – “Joy Rider and Joy Writer”! Then I realized I was about to write another blog – straight from Heaven Central.

So, let’s go somewhere with that headline! I don’t think I ever thought of myself as a Joy Rider or a Joy Writer – but I like it! I couldn't help but smile. It started me thinking about how we approach life’s winding roads and unexpected turns. Hands clenched around the steering wheel – or taking it easy peasy -- because God has us.

A Joy Rider is most likely to be someone who hops in the passenger seat, leans back, and lets Jesus take the wheel. (Thanks, Carrie Underwood, for that great song!) We know we’re not in control and are okay with it because we know Who is. Even when life seems to hit a pothole or take a detour, Joy Riders hold on and find a way to praise through it.

And, then there’s the Joy Writer – someone who picks up the pen, determined to write joy into their story no matter what. When the plot thickens with heartache or unexpected challenges, we dig deep and choose to rewrite our responses with grace and faith.

Joy Writers are intentional about finding the good, even when it means flipping back through past chapters to remind ourselves that God’s faithfulness has never wavered.

Some days, I feel like I’m hanging on for dear life with my seatbelt fastened tightly! Other days, I’m scribbling down my gratitude list, writing joy into every moment I can. It’s a delicate balance of holding on and letting go.

If you’re like me, you’re probably a bit of both – a Joy Rider and a Joy Writer. The key is letting God be the author AND the driver. He’s the one who knows the road ahead and the story yet to be written. Our job? To sit back, chill, pick up the pen when prompted, and let joy have the final word.

So, what about you? Are you a Joy Rider or Joy Writer or Joy Maker in whatever you do? Why not purpose to fill your life with the joy that only comes in knowing our Lord Who is the JOY Giver and JOY Multiplier?

Go ahead and sharpen that pencil or put paint on that roller or change your baby's diaper -- whatever it is that you are doing -- why not let it be filled with the JOY OF THE LORD?

Adding JOY to our business, our daily routines and our journeys is the IT factor that propels us into a life of beauty in everything we do. Whatever it is that you are doing right now -- let joy fuel your journey. Let’s carry on with joy -- no matter what!

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13