Discovering True JoyPrimjer

Understanding Joy Doesn't Come Easily

The young traveler in today’s portion of the short film was pleasantly surprised when his beloved candy bar finally fell loose. Likewise, we can celebrate and thank God for life’s victories and blessings even if they seem small. 

Each person has different reasons to be happy, but each follower of Jesus has the choice to seek joy. But how do we choose joy when circumstances aren’t so joyous? 

Joy doesn’t come easily or often for many.

In John 10:10, it says that the thief—meaning Satan—comes to steal, kill and destroy. This includes our joy. 

Mental illness, sickness and traumatic experiences are just a few examples of circumstances that Satan can use to lead us to despair. Despair gives rise to confusion and doubt, which can even grow into disbelief in who God is and that His ways are good. A lack of joy doesn’t mean we don’t have enough faith in God or that we’re living a life of sin. 

Thankfully, we know that we can rest in God’s great wisdom and protection despite what we see and feel.

In the Book of James, Paul tells us to practice joy when we face something difficult, since it grows our perseverance. Paul faced so many trials. He was tortured, jailed multiple times and likely experienced health issues. But despite all of this, he saw his relationship with God grow stronger. 

Galatians 5 lists joy as one of the fruits of the Spirit. Joy is not a spiritual gift, which would imply some have it and others don’t. Joy comes from the Holy Spirit, which is active in the life of every follower of Jesus. Each believer is capable of having joy no matter the circumstance, through the power of the Holy Spirit.  

When you feel down, remember to pray and ask God to guide you to a place of joy. Try listing what you are thankful for from that week or month.