The Fruit of the Spirit is used by me as a barometer on how I’m doing spiritually and emotionally. Joy is one of the most important aspects of the Fruit of the Spirit.

Our joy comes from our relationship with the Lord, who is the true source of this joy. Regardless of the circumstances, I have found as I look to God for whatever the circumstance may need there is a joy that comes with it. This does not mean a hilarious happiness but more of a steady, peaceful joy. Perhaps it is because I know that God is there with me, guiding me through whatever the challenge may be, then knowing the “Joy of the Lord is my strength” Nehemiah 8:10.

My attitude determines everything about me, and how I view life. Even today I still work on my “attitude of gratitude” remembering how incredibly good God has been to me.