A Substitute For Joy

My friend, Cathy, posted this quote on facebook, and it really struck home.

"Entertainment is the devil's substitute for Joy, the less joy of the Lord you have the more entertainment you need." -Leonard Ravenhill

Wow. We turned off our cable TV about 2 years ago and now have only local channels, and I really have not missed it.  I have seen the positive changes in my homeschooled children.  My kids do not have cell phones, mp3 players, or the latest gaming system (yet...).  But could I do more; do I need to do more?  YES.  Since we cut off the cable a substitute has crept in...online movie streaming, you know the one, all you have to do is click the blue play instantly button.  And guess what? its not just the kids crooning over the blue button!

You know, once you gain victory in one area of your life, another vice or struggle rears its ugly head, or more like a four headed dragon!  

So what is the answer? I know it. You may know it. But here it is again: In the presence of the Lord is fullness of joy! Psalm 16:11 And how do you come into the presence of the Lord?  Daily devotion in prayer and reading of His Word.  Easier said than done, I know.  Help me, Lord, to seek Your face early and to meditate on Your Word day and night! Amen!

Philippians 4:6-9

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

  Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

  Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

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