jay malott
Love and support was never questioned. I never went to bed hungry or unwanted. I never had everything I wanted, but I had everything that I needed. I learned that there is no substitute for hard work, and that there is greater pride in something earned than something given. I have lived enough for several lifetimes, yet I feel as though I'm only just beginning my journey.
The first few years I lived in a 5th wheel travel trailer where my parents were traveling evangelists. Then We bounced around for a while with my father pastored several churches and going back to college. Then we moved to Nigeria where I graduated high school. I attended college for a while and got married. I have held almost every labor position in the construction industry. I do high steel rigging, I'm an audio engineer, arborist, electrician, I play over 10 instruments, and..and..and...
Am I Joyful? Yes. Is it because of material wealth, accolades, and accomplishments? Absolutely not.
Joy, like Love, is a choice. It's not an emotion.
I choose Joy, not because of what I've done or what has happened to me, but because of who I am and what has been done for me.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were yet sinners Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:8
While I was at my worst, he gave me his best. I know that at the end of each day I've worked as hard as I can, I've given 110%, and I'm loved by the King of kings and the Lord of lords.
“In all things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height or depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8:37-39
With this knowledge, what can keep me down? What can hold me back? You too can have the desires of your heart. Not because your circumstances will change, but because your desires change. Matthew 6:33 says “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” By seeking God's kingdom and his righteousness our hearts and lives are changed. Our focus and desires are completely changed to line up with His. Will you have wealth? Maybe, maybe not. Will you be healthy? Maybe, maybe not. Will you have Joy and a peace that passes all understanding? Absolutely.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
John 10:10