I refuse to believe that there isn’t a bright spot, no matter how tiny or silly or trivial it may be, in every single day. Would you agree? Or agree to disagree?

I’ve been thinking lately about attitude and perspective. I think, how much better would I feel if I found at least one bright spot (or two, or three) in every single day? It’s too easy to be bogged down by the busyness of a day, to let stressors color my entire being, or become weary by letting anxiety or negativity run the day.

I recognize that there will be days when choosing a bright spot will seem difficult, or even tiring, but I think it could be revolutionary in my life. It can make the day great, looking for that funny or cool spot, and encouraging the people I love to share theirs.

This mantra is a reminder that there is gold even on difficult days. I love the Habakkuk 3 passage below, especially the phrase “I will be joyful in God my Savior.” No matter the circumstances, or the day, being in Christ gives me strength and ability to choose what can make the day the best day ever.

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.” Habakkuk 3:18

Other verses that inspire this resolution are Romans 5:3-4 and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

As 2015 closes, I challenge myself with these thoughts:

Beware of joy thieves — They are waiting in every instance of the day. We can choose if we hand our joy over willingly or not.

Rediscover small joys — I think there are hidden treasures that I miss enjoying every day. I don’t want to spend another day missing the pleasure in the most ordinary of things.

Express yourself enthusiastically — Smile more, laugh easier, bear-hug friends. Compliment people, be kind to strangers, tell people what you love about them. There’s no joy like spreading joy!

Practice thankfulness — Even if I’m never blessed with another “awesome thing,” I can still choose thanks for my marriage, my family and friends, my home, and the never-ending grace and faithfulness of God.

Be present — Have you ever had an instance where your heart wanted to burst? Sometimes it comes from the most unexpected places. Unfortunately, we can’t live there 24/7. Even if a moment seems dark or overwhelming, feel the emotion. Turn it over to Jesus, and ask His help to choose a bright spot. In my experience, He is more than ready and willing to be what I need.

 

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Naturally, it’s only right to have a fun mug given by a friend to drink out of that’s strangely, incredibly appropriate to 2016.

Do you have a resolution for 2016?