SPEAKER_00: As we get started today, close your eyes.
SPEAKER_00: Picture yourself leaning into these few moments with Jesus.
SPEAKER_00: If you can, physically move yourself to a new space to signal to your body and mind that we are about to start something new.
SPEAKER_00: Repeat this after me.
SPEAKER_00: God wants to talk to me today.
SPEAKER_00: I'll take a deep breath.
SPEAKER_00: Hard seasons have a way of dulling joy.
SPEAKER_00: But Jesus reminds us that joy rooted in Him is not taken away by circumstances.
SPEAKER_00: It runs deeper than what we feel or see.
SPEAKER_00: Let's read John 16, 22 together.
SPEAKER_00: This is what it says.
SPEAKER_00: So with you, now is your time of grief.
SPEAKER_00: But I will see you again, and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.
SPEAKER_00: Take 20 seconds to thank Jesus for a joy that cannot be stolen, a joy anchored in his presence, not your situation.
SPEAKER_00: Ask him to restore joy in your heart even as you walk through difficulty.
SPEAKER_00: Ask him to show you how to restore joy even when life feels like it's getting the best of you.
SPEAKER_00: Remember, it is good to ask God for specific things.
SPEAKER_00: He loves hearing the desires of your heart.
SPEAKER_00: He isn't afraid or disappointed when you talk directly.
SPEAKER_00: Steady, present, and full of hope.
SPEAKER_00: What emotions are arising to the surface?
SPEAKER_00: Take thirty seconds and pray for someone walking through grief or loss.
SPEAKER_00: Ask Jesus to guard their joy and strengthen their heart.
SPEAKER_00: Amen.