God wants you to live an abundant life.  He doesn’t want you to just get by. He doesn’t want you to live an ordinary, average or mediocre life. No, He wants your days to be full of joy, enthusiasm and excitement. Here are 10 practical tips to get you on the road to a life full of a complete joy.

1. Devotion – Start your day off on the right foot. Have your prayer time with God. Study and meditate on His word. It’s great momentum for the rest of the day. And it can suit you better than any coffee, instant tea or hot chocolate ever can. It’s a sure way to build your day on a solid foundation.

2. Feed yourself – Studies show that you’re not you, when you’re hungry. You’re cranky, moody, irritable and on edge. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It gives you a boost of great energy. Having a healthy breakfast is a great way to start your day.

3. Smile – One of the greatest gifts God has given you is your smile. Nehemiah 8:10 says that the joy of the Lord is your strength. Wear your joy and wear it well. Studies show that when you smile, you’re subconsciously communicating to yourself that everything is going to be okay. Make a decision to smile, it’s a win-win. Not only are you benefiting yourself but you’re bringing joy to another person’s day by being a light in a dark world.

4. Build up another – A great way to bring joy to a sad time is to build up another person. Encourage someone today. Tell someone they are the apple of God’s eyes. Let them know they are blessed and highly favored of the Lord. Remind them that they are God’s most prized possession.

5. Exercise – One of the greatest stress relievers is physical fitness. It doesn’t take much. Some experts say just a few minutes of physical exercise per day is a great way to relieve stress. In doing so, your body is releasing natural chemicals that give you a sense of complete joy and well being.

6. Do a Good Deed – Much of what Jesus did while he was here on earth was simply do good deeds. In Acts 10:38, Peter makes reference to John’s preaching about how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good… One of the greatest ways to bring joy to your day is by simply “doing good.” Think of one good deed you can do for a friend and do it. You’ll be surprised at how much joy there is in putting others ahead of yourself. Remember, you reap what you sow. God will turn around and bless you in return.

7. Think good thoughts – When you go around focused on the negative, you’re robbing yourself of joy, peace, and wholeness. God’s Word says to think about things that are virtuous, noble and excellent. Think on things that are pure, things that are of a good report and worthy of praise. When you meditate and think on good things the Lord will satisfy your day with increase, favor, joy and peace.

8. Express gratitude – I always like to say, “when you complain, you remain. When you express gratitude, you change your altitude.” Count your blessings. Express your gratitude and look for the Lord to open up doors of opportunities and enlarge your territory!

9. Get plenty of rest – This is a hard one for the ‘go getters’ to swallow, but the truth is we must get plenty of rest. When you get the proper amount of rest you’ll wake up refreshed, energized and ready to face your brand new day with excitement. It also impacts your attitude.

10. Rinse and repeat – Be consistent. Make it a lifestyle. Don’t just do it once. No, results come with consistency. Shake off the burdens of the day. Leave your cares with the Lord. Wake up the next day, wipe the slate clean and do it all over again. When you do so you’ll find increasing joy in every area of your life as you charge forth on your journey!

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