Choose the Good Life

"Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior." (Habakkuk 3:18 NIV)It is very easy for us to become so serious in our illnesses that we lose sight of simple pleasures and enjoyment. We can actually make things harder than they are at times. It is harmful to our mental well being to always see the cup of life half empty; we must remember it is also half full and hold on to that reality.Anyone can complain of their troubles and bad circumstances—yet there are those enigmatic people who have endured things such as the Nazi concentration camps and are still able to say life and God are good. So there has to be something here that carries us in joy beyond our sufferings and trials, that brings joy in the morning after the darkest of nights.Life is good and God is good. We can choose to see that or not…the choice is up to us. We can also only fixate on our problem times. We can exclude the moments of peace and rest or we can admit that though there are hard times that can take us in circles, we can still appreciate those quiet peace-filled moments. Enjoy the story of a far away place. Savor this meal. Take joy in the soft caress of a loved one. Mostly though be filled with God's power even in our weakness."Surely then you will find delight in the Almighty and will lift up your face to God. (Job 22:26)Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You and praise You for the blessings in our lives. Help us never to let pain and trials get in the way of knowing a and ppreciating your blessings. Thank you, Lord, especially for the blessing of knowing that You will never leave us.ABOUT THE AUTHORPatricia Armstrong lives in Va Beach, Va, and Harrisonburg, Va.(beautiful Shenandoah Valley). She is a retired teacher and enjoys volunteer work in her church and community. Patricia deals with constant pain from peripheral neuropathy but finds strength in knowing God is always present.