Issues about loneliness, anxiety and depression are very common these days. In fact, it is something I am personally familiar with. Looking back, being so sad all the time, crying for no apparent reason, feeling lonely but wanting to be alone at the same time are just the tip of the iceberg. This is why I've finally decided to share my journey to everyone. Hopefully, somewhere out there, someone's life may be touched, in Jesus' name.

Backseat DJs: What is Controlling your Joy?
James 1:2-4
by Pastor Steven Furtick

This is one of the most powerful messages that helped me understand my struggle with sadness. I suggest to everyone to watch the sermon first and review with my notes (and add yours too!) afterwards.

A. The Distinction of Joy
We don't always go through the same thing but we all go through something.
Know the difference between temptation and trial.
Temptation
- from the devil
- RESIST!!!

Trial
- may be from the devil
- can be a result of our own doing
- ACCEPT!!!

Sometimes we accept what we should resist and resist what we should accept!
Go straight to God for wisdom to know which is which.
Know the difference between Joy and Pleasure/Happiness
- In James, it said 'pure joy' so it means there is another type of it.
- Remember that Pleasure/Happiness can be associated with Joy but Real Joy is not dependent on pleasure.
In real joy, quality is more important than quantity.

B. The Direction of Joy
Nowadays, there is pressure to feel pleasure that makes us feel more miserable.
ex. Social media shows things that become our standard for being happy.

Hebrews 12:2 says we should 'fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith'
- Remember that He endured the cross for the joy SET BEFORE him.

Joy is a point of view
- it is not the absence of sadness
- it is not the presence of spectacular
- There is a difference between going through pain with a purpose and going through pain without purpose. (Like Jesus who went through it all with a purpose.)
- Joy is a focus BEFORE it becomes a feeling.

Focus on getting more joy by:
- stop looking around you/comparing
- stop looking behind you/what could have been/regrets
- stop looking too far ahead
- Focus on what God is doing at this moment.
Psalms 16:11 says joy is found in His presence.
- Are you present at this moment?

C. The Duration of Joy
You cannot choose joy, you can only choose your priorities.
Your priorities will ultimately control your joy. What you prioritize will be what makes you happy.
Where our joy comes from determines when it runs out.

Remember: We can enjoy things but don't put our joy in it. Enjoy it but don't let your joy be dependent on fleeting moments and things.

Remember too that we have a well that never runs out in Christ Jesus.