Today’s post will be short and sweet! Every summer, our family comes up with a bucket list of things we want to do. They range from very simple and free things (i.e. going on a nature walk) to more expensive things (i.e taking a trip to the beach). I have attached a copy of our bucket list here.

Feel free to use it or borrow ideas from it. We try to do one activity each day. We do everything we can to make sure that summer is memorable and fun for our kids. We want them to look back on their childhoods and know we were intentional with the time we had with them.

But what about us?

We spend all of our energy working, taking care of others, getting the kids to all the things and completely forget to take care of ourselves. My challenge to you is this: take 10 minutes each day doing something that brings you joy.

^42 “Every believer was faithfully devoted to following the teachings of the apostles. Their hearts were mutually linked to one another, sharing communion and coming together regularly for prayer.⁴³ A deep sense of holy awe swept over everyone, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders.⁴⁴ All the believers were in fellowship as one body, and they shared with one another whatever they had. ⁴⁵ Out of generosity they even sold their assets to distribute the proceeds to those who were in need among them. ⁴⁶ Daily they met together in the temple courts and in one another’s homes to celebrate communion. They shared meals together with joyful hearts and tender humility. ⁴⁷ They were continually filled with praises to God, enjoying the favor of all the people.And the Lord kept adding to their number daily those who were coming to life,” (Acts 2:42-47 TPT).

I love this scripture for a few reasons:  The Holy Spirit was poured out at the beginning of this chapter, Peter started preaching and 3,000 people gave their hearts to Jesus. I mean this is one of the best times in the history of the WORLD! Then, out of response to this revival, this brand-new, baby church spent all their time together, shared all their stuff and were FULL of joy. And because of their joy, more and more people wanted Jesus.

Too many Christians are grumpy and disappointed. Why would anyone want what we have if what we have doesn’t seem appealing? One of the evidences to the world that we live for Christ is that we have joy. Joy in the church makes people want Jesus.

“Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has already approved what you do,” (Ecclesiastes 9:7 ESV).

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you will abound in hope and overflow with confidence in His promises,” (Romans 15:13 AMP).

 “He continued, ‘Go home and prepare a feast, holiday food and drink; and share it with those who don’t have anything: This day is holy to God. Don’t feel bad. The joy of God is your strength!’” (Nehemiah 8:10 MSG).

“Shout aloud and sing for joy, people of Zion, for great is the Holy One of Israel among you,” (Nehemiah 8:10).

So, go spend 10 minutes doing stuff that brings you joy!

Here’s a bucket list for you. Dream up fun stuff that you want to do and enjoy your life!

Love,

Tif