Waking Up with Joy: Believing Something Wonderful is Going to Happen!
There’s a simple little phrase that has been boosting my heart and my mornings lately: “I believe something wonderful is going to happen today.” Saying these words out loud when I wake, even before my feet hit the floor, has become an encouragement for my soul, setting a tone of hopeful expectation for the day ahead. And it’s all rooted in the deep joy we can all find in the Lord.
Joy is My Strength
The Bible tells us in Nehemiah 8:10, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” What a truth! It’s not our own temporary happiness that keeps us going, but a supernatural, amazing joy that comes from our relationship with Him. This joy isn’t dependent on circumstances or situations. It’s a flowing spring that flows even during difficulties (as James 1 teaches), a quiet confidence that God is at work, always.
When I declare “I believe something wonderful is going to happen today,” it’s not a naive wish. I’m not naming it and claiming it. It’s a statement of faith, a recognition that God is good, and His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). My statement is a rejection of cynicism and an embrace of the truth. One such truth is found in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Thanksgiving is in My Heart
Part of stirring up this joy is living with a heart full of thanksgiving. The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” It’s easy to be thankful when everything is going good, but true growth comes when we can find reasons to give thanks even when life throws curveballs.
When I say my morning declaration, my mind immediately begins to list the blessings I already have. And top among them are the incredible people God has placed in my life.
I am so incredibly thankful for my amazing wife. Her unending love, her strength, her wisdom, and her grace are daily blessings in my life. She is truly a gift from God, and every day with her is a wonderful day.
And our daughter, what a joy she is! Watching her grow into the beautiful, strong, and compassionate woman she’s become has been one of the greatest privileges of my wife and I’s life. Her laughter, her spirit, and her presence brings light into our lives.
And now, to see her find real joy and happiness with our new son-in-law, fills my heart with gratitude and joy. He is a wonderful addition to our family, a direct answer to prayer, and it’s a joy to witness the love and partnership they share. God truly does provide abundantly more than we could ever ask or think!
I Dwell with God
My declaration of joy also reminds me to dwell in God’s presence every day. Psalm 16:11 tells us, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Our anticipation of wonderful things should be found in His presence.
It’s in His presence that we find peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). It’s in His presence that we are reminded of His unfailing love (Psalm 36:5). And it’s in His presence that our hope is renewed, knowing that He has good plans for us, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).
So today I encourage you to try it. Speak it aloud: Shout it! “I believe something wonderful is going to happen today.”See how it changes your perspective. Let the joy of the Lord be your strength, give thanks for all your blessings, and watch as God, in His infinite goodness, reveals the wonderful things He has in store.
What “wonderful” thing are you believing for today? Let me know below!