Joy is not a feeling but a choice. You have to CHOOSE joy, otherwise, you will succumb to your feelings and emotions. Our feelings and emotions can take us on a roller coaster ride. We can feel happy when our circumstances are going well and depressed when our circumstances are troubling.

Joy, however, can be with us every day through the good times and the not-so-good times.

Joy does not =happiness.

Biblical joy is a by-product of a confident, calm and relaxed state that trusts in the Sovereignty of God at all times. Happiness comes as a result of something positive happening to us or around us, such as getting a raise at work or when two people fall in love.

The fruit of the Holy Spirit is, “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness and faithfulness.” Happiness is not mentioned as the fruit of the Holy Spirit. We cannot generate this true joy ourselves, it is the product of the Holy Spirit in us. This type of joy cannot be extinguished by the circumstances of life. As a Christian, if you rarely feel joy this is an indicator of a problem that shows there is brokenness such as anger, repressed trauma, or hopelessness. Ask Holy Spirit to show you the root of your lack of joy.

Joy has not come easy for me over the years, I admit I have struggled to find joy during my difficult seasons. Many of my circumstances are still challenging, and I don’t feel happy about the pain many of the people and situations in my life has caused. I can, however, CHOOSE to be joyful despite these difficulties. The big question is how? I can tell you firsthand, joy does not look like happiness. Joy can be described as a calm delight that God is in control and you can enjoy the blessings that you do have while not focusing on the hardships. Happiness is a feel-good emotion that produces elation, excitability, and temporary pleasure.

How to get your joy back:

If you have not had joy in a while, take heart because joy can be restored. Restore to me the joy of my salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Psalm 51:12

Joy is found in God’s presence. If you are lacking in joy, try to spend intimate time with God. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11

Joy is the result of righteousness. If you have unrepented sin in your life, it will diminish your joy. Light shines on the godly, and joy on those whose hearts are right. Psalm 97:11

Joy can be found in God’s word. Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are joy of my heart. Psalm 119:11

Joy comes with hope. Develop the habit of anticipating God’s goodness in your life. The hope of the righteous brings joy. Proverbs 10:28

Joy comes when we trust the Lord. Oh, the joys of those who trust the Lord. Psalm 40:4

Jesus said,” These things I have spoken to you that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be made full.” John 15:11

The apostle Paul said, “always rejoice.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16

Rekindle your love for Jesus to get your joy back. Perhaps you have been angry, disappointed, or let down by God and have kept Him at a distance. Admit to God your feelings, and then ask Him to fill you afresh with an outpouring of His love.

Stephanie R. Reck, LMSW, LBT, BCCC
Stephanie Reck, Coaching & Consultation Services
www.stephaniereck.com
[email protected]
Stephanie Reck Coaching & Consultation Services, @2024
Author of, "Disciplining Your Mind 30 Days to a Better You!"