Parenting on PointSample

Cultivating Joy in Everyday Moments

Joy is a powerful expression of God's presence in our lives. It is more than mere happiness, which can come and go with circumstances. Joy is a deep, abiding delight that comes from knowing and trusting God, regardless of the situation. As parents, cultivating joy in our hearts and homes is vital because it becomes the atmosphere in which our children grow.

Start by helping your children understand that joy comes from the Lord and is not dependent on external things like possessions, achievements, or even good circumstances. These kinds of blessings are wonderful, but life can and should be good when all we have is God’s presence. Explain to them that joy is the quiet confidence that God is in control and that He loves us and will work everything for our good.

Model joy in your own life. Let your children see you finding joy in everyday moments—whether it’s during a quiet morning prayer, enjoying a meal together, or even handling a challenging situation with grace. Show them that joy is a choice to see God’s goodness and love in every circumstance. If your home does not have much laughter and fun, you probably need to intentionally make some changes. The culture of Heaven will be full of joy, fun, and making memories. We were made for joy and only had joy until sin entered the world. Once Jesus returns and removes all the sin from the world, all we will have is joy together forever. The goal should be for our homes to seek joy and the culture of God’s house, called Heaven.

One evening, as I (Mark) was putting our youngest son to bed, he said, “Dad, today was fun. I like it when you laugh.” Those words stuck with me, realizing that my children notice my attitude and mood and that my decision to choose joy not only impacted me but also shaped their hearts and minds.

I (Grace) remember as a teenager being teased for laughing too much, and because I was shy, it caused me to try not to laugh and be as joyful. It was damaging for a few years, and I didn’t want my kids’ joy to be squashed. If they enjoyed something, I really tried to enjoy it with them.

Teach your children to practice gratitude. Joy often begins with a thankful heart. Encourage your children to thank God daily for His blessings, both big and small. Create a habit of saying “thank you” to God, not just for what He does but for who He is.

Encourage your children to find joy in serving others. There is great joy in giving and being a blessing to someone else. Help them discover the joy of helping a friend, sharing with a sibling, or volunteering in the community.

Help your children memorize Bible verses about joy, such as John 15:11 (ESV): "These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." Use these verses to remind them that Jesus came to bring us full joy, and that joy is found in a relationship with Him.

Encourage laughter and fun in your home. Make time for games, humor, and lighthearted activities that foster connection and joy. Goofing around is a good spiritual discipline for parents to practice with their kids. Laughter is a gift from God that strengthens relationships and brings healing

Dear Father, thank You for the gift of joy that comes from knowing You. Help us to find joy in every moment, even the challenging ones. Fill our hearts and homes with Your presence so that we may reflect Your love and light to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.