“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.” Habakkuk 3:17-18 NIV

In the verse above, the prophet Habakkuk is rejoicing in the Lord even though there is not much to be thankful or joyful about, no fruit on the trees or vines, no crops or food, and no animals. Habakkuk could have complained and been sad or even angry. But he chose to be joyful because the Lord is always good. He is our Savior, our friend, our comforter, our God. Even when things happen that seem bad all around us, God is with us.

Think about a long noodle float in a pool. You can push it underwater, but it pops right back up, it’s “unsinkable”. Habakkuk is reminding all of us that even when we have troubles, we can still be joyful. We can choose to look at the good things in our lives, things that God gives us, and not sink under our flood of troubles, we can be “unsinkable”!

Jesus tells us, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NIVb We will all have trouble. But we have to choose joy. We have to choose to look to Jesus and be unsinkable.

Choose Joy, Be Unsinkable!

When someone calls you a mean name, remember God and Jesus call you, beloved child.

When you fail at a task, remember Father God promises that He has a good plan for your life.

When money is tight and you don’t get your toy, remember that Jesus is the greatest gift you could ever get.

When you are worried because mom and dad are arguing, remember that Jesus calms the seas and gives you peace.

When troubles come, like you know they will, remember that Father God and Jesus are your strength and protection.

Rise above your troubles and choose joy, be unsinkable!

This week, when you are faced with trouble or a difficult situation, think about how you can choose joy and be “unsinkable”. Talk with your parents about an issue you are having at school or in your neighborhood or just by yourself. Talk about the joy you can find in God and in Jesus. How can you be “unsinkable”? How can you share with others so they can float with you above life’s troubles?

Blessings as you choose joy and remain unsinkable!