The Joy of the Lord is My Strength

(This post is written by our guest blogger Samuel. Samuel is 17 years old. Learn more about Samuel by reading his other posts.)

Even though I face autism every day, I am thrilled to say the joy of the Lord is my strength! Dealing with a complex communication disorder (that means I can’t say what I need to or want to with my mouth or face) makes joy seem far away to others. I have so much to look forward to as His child. Even if I did not have a breakthrough in communication I have so many blessings in Christ! Being forgiven of ALL my sins gives me overwhelming joy. This joy gives me the strength to live a life of love and hope. Even though I still have sadness because I cannot speak, I have the blessing of hope in the promises of Jesus. Joy is not the same as happiness. It happens when we trust our whole lives to Jesus. Can you imagine the hopelessness and sadness of those who have no voice? Will you pray with me for the many people, with and without autism, who have no hope in Jesus?