God has given us a mind, and whatever God has given us, we have to steward. What does repeated negative thinking do? Creates a chemical imbalance (too much cortisol) Changes your brain structure (Neuroplasticity) Over activation of the amygdala Weakens your prefrontal cortex Ephesians 4:23 Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Galatians 5:22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy… The most liberating thing to learn when it comes to joy is that you’re in the driver’s seat. You can’t force feelings of joy, but you can always make choices of joy. Things that can kill my joy: Thoughts Psalm 73:21-22 Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside. I was so foolish and ignorant— I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you. Circumstances James 1:2 When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. Words James 3:6 And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. Things that can increase my joy: God’s presence & work in my life Psalm 16:11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. Psalm 30:11-12 You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever! The right thoughts Philippians 4:8 Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Psalm 1:1-3 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. The right words Psalm 30… that I might sing praises to you and not be silent.… 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.