Get Happy: Break the Pattern That's Breaking Youনমুনা

Joy That Overflows: A Witness to the World

Now that you know true happiness comes from slowing down with God, letting Him lead, living generously, and renewing your mind – the question becomes, what do you do with it? Once you’ve found this better source of freedom and life, how should you then live?

Jesus told His followers:

“You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:14,16 NIV

Light doesn’t call attention to itself; it simply shines and shows the way. Joy works like that, too.

When your life is anchored in God’s love and presence, people will notice. They see peace when circumstances are hard, gratitude instead of entitlement, generosity instead of self-focus. They will see love where others may show jealousy or even hatred, just as Jesus says:

“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love… I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” – John 15:9,11-12 NIV

Jesus gives joy so it can be shared. The joy of Christ is not private self-help; it is part of His mission. As His joy fills you, it invites others to taste and see that God is good.

You don’t have to be perfect or constantly cheerful. Authentic joy is not pretending everything is fine. It’s living apart from the “pattern of this world” with hope, peace, and trust in God even when life is challenging. That kind of happiness is compelling because it’s lasting and real.

In a culture where people chase happiness but end up restless, your life can quietly say, “There is another way.” And then when others around you ask what’s up, remember these words of the apostle Peter:

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” – 1 Peter 3:15 NIV

People will ask what’s different about you. And, when they do, you don’t need a speech, just honesty. You can say your joy comes from trusting God, knowing His forgiveness, and living for something bigger than yourself. Living apart from the “pattern of this world” and drawing on the living water of God’s Word.

In closing, remember these words, often attributed to St. Francis of Assisi:

“Witness always, use words only when necessary.”

May your life be the fire that attracts others to seek Christ also.

Take Time to Reflect

1. When have you seen someone’s joy influence or encourage you?
2. How might your joy quietly bless someone around you this week?
3. Are you prepared to explain where your joy comes from if someone asks?

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If these reflections have helped you see happiness in a new light, explore more in the book, Get Happy. The book goes deeper in a way that's written for anyone — Christian or not — who is longing for something deeper than the world’s version of happiness. Share it with a friend who’s still searching for joy - a great way to get them thinking about their faith once again without being pushy. Get your copy (and theirs too) here.

For more readings like this, please visit our website or search for other plans authored by Roland Heersink in the YouVersion app. Or, dig into the Bible reading plan, "3-line Motto for Christian Living at Home and Work", for further encouragement.

Blessings to you!