1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

To me, this verse helps define what it means to have a joyful heart. On the good days, it's easy to rejoice and thank God—but this verse also reminds me that even the hard days have a purpose, and that trials don’t last forever. We can choose to be thankful in every circumstance, both in the highs and the lows.

As an educator, it’s helpful for me to view challenges as lessons—opportunities for growth in both my faith and character. They are lessons God will help me understand, if I take the time to seek His will.

Prayer

Rejoice on good days and bad. - Prayer Focus: Thank the Lord for all the things you enjoy about teaching. List them out and thank Him. Praise Him because all these good things come from Him. Pray that when you have a trial this year, that you will have the ability to set aside emotions and seek the Lord's wisdom . How does He want you to handle it? What can you learn from it? Rejoice that He loves you and wants what is best for you. Thank Him for what you can learn from the trial.