Like Snow in Texas

Ask anyone in America if 2021 is off to a great start, and most would say no. Between the COVD-19 situation and the political unrest, watching the news can be pretty depressing. But there, right in the middle of all of the negative topics, was a bright spot–it snowed in Texas!

Suddenly, people were building snowmen and sharing photos of their backyard winter wonderlands. Whatever pain there was in the world, it just seemed to disappear in a blanket of white. That rare, short-lived weather event brought something people needed so much in that moment–joy!

The Bible talks a lot about finding joy during trials, but that can be a challenge. It is easy to get so caught up in stress and sorrow, fear or anxiety, that we don’t see the good things. They are there, though, starting with the Father’s everlasting love for us. When we see through the lens of the God’s love, we see things anew. We know He has placed in our lives things that will bring us joy; we just have to look for them. Like snow in Texas, God’s blessings are beautiful, yet often unexpected. They may come when the sun is shining or may appear in the darkest of nights. Regardless of our circumstances, we find joy when we hope in Him.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of

the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13

“For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty and before Him; strength

and joy are in His dwelling place.” – I Chronicles 16:26-27

“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” – John 15:11