Joy Challenge #9: Treat yo’self!
Ok, this isn’t actually permission to go on a massive shopping spree. While retail therapy is one of my favorite ways to deal with all the feelings, it’s not particularly healthy – for you, or your wallet. What I’m suggesting instead is that you revisit that joy list you created a few days ago and pick one of them to do. What is it on that list that feels like a particularly indulgent treat? What is something that brings you joy, something you haven’t allowed yourself the time or heart-space to do recently?
Do that.
The ideas I’m sharing in these challenges are some of my favorites at best, generic at worst. God created each of us to be so uniquely created that the way you experience joy through God in your life might be completely different from me. Maybe I love snuggling in with a good book and fuzzy blanket on a rainy fall day, and you would rather host a dinner party with all of your favorite people. Maybe the feeling of accomplishment after a good workout brings me joy and you would rather bake cupcakes for your neighbors.
What is it that brings YOU joy? Because if we’re really going to break out of this legacy of jealousy, we’re going to need to stop doing what everyone else is doing and do what God made us to do. And that includes embracing the things that make you happy, give you a song in your spirit and smile on your face.
Indulge in something today that feels like an extravagant use of your time – but something that will bring you closer to God as you reach for joy, and away from jealousy.
Questions:
- What did you write on your list that you want to do today?
- When was the last time you did something for YOU?
- Is it easier to do things that bring others joy, or do things that bring you joy?
Thanks for encouraging us to be ourselves and not like everyone else. One of my favorite things to do is snuggle under a blanket in my comfy lounge chair and read.