⏱ 4 min read

Say Cheeesseee! Snap!

• Did you know you cannot mention certain words without showing your teeth or triggering a grin on your face?
• Everybody say, “Cheeesseee! Monneeyyy! Caaasshhh! Smiiillee! ‘Bankyyeee!’ Great, you just tried it out lol.
• These and many more joyful strategies are what photographers use to create the atmosphere for a good photo outcome, regardless of any downsides you may be going through.

Today, we explore the Word and Promises of God – our perfect photographer (James 1:23-25). Ready? Let’s hit the booth.

“For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does” – James 1:23-25

The Reality versus Our Reality

• The reality is that life is not child’s play. Life can be very tough.
• Life can be filled with many overwhelming and unpleasant situations that will try to steal your joy.
• It is popularly said that in life you are either in trouble, have just come out of trouble, or about to enter trouble. Mercy! (1 Pet 5:8, John 10:10, Job 1:7, Eph 6:12-13).

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. ~ 1 Peter 5:8

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"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." ~ John 10:10

However, despite all the pressures we are faced with in our journey of faith, the reality of life must be overshadowed by Our Reality as believers; as the Bible admonishes through the teachings of Paul.

“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” ~ Philippians 4:4 

This is Our Reality behind the reality as children of God. Although these words of encouragement sound simple, it becoming your reality can be very difficult when approached from the flesh. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit. 

The joy described here encompasses one that is deep seated in the spirit and comes from knowing one’s identity in Christ and having a personal revelation of the Love of Christ and the immeasurable privilege of His Grace.

• In order to operate in this level of Joy, it is essential for you to indulge and meditate on the word of God to feed your Spirit and build your faith (Romans 10:17).
• It is my prayer that as you study the word, the Love of Christ will be revealed unto you and your Spirit will open up to the Joy of the Lord (John 15:13, Eph 3, Rom 8:38-39, Neh 8:10).

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. ~ Romans 8:38-39

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;" ~ Philippians 4:6

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How comforting are these words. Be anxious for nothing dear friend. Taking it all back to God shows your trust in His abilities, goodness and Love.

• Worry is not of God, it is the devil eating your joy and health away, while causing you to lose focus on Christ (Heb 12:2, Matt 6:25-34). 
• Today’s Prayer song: What a friend we have in Jesus, and what a privilege to carry everything and anything to Him in prayer.
• We’ll continue tomorrow with two more points on the reality versus our reality.

Share with us in the comments some of the promises of God that keep you encouraged. ~ Deaconess Denise Samuella Oppong

Hey, you're blessed and highly favoured and dearly loved!
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