“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” Psalm 126:3 (NIV)
Defined by Claire, age 11
In church they say joy comes from inside my heart because God loves me, and feeling joy doesn’t mean I’m always happy about what’s going on. Mom asked if I could explain the difference between happiness and joy in my life.
I remember playing in a weekend soccer tournament and feeling really disappointed because my team didn’t win. I thought we were better than the other team, but we lost in the championship game.
So, where’s the joy?
Right here. I got to play soccer with my friends! I even scored a goal! I wasn’t happy about losing the game, but the smile on my face showed the joy in my heart.
Joy is being able to be happy even when things don’t turn out the way you want them to. That’s what joy means to me.
Conversation Starters
- How do you act when you are sad or disappointed?
- Claire defined joy is being happy even when things don’t always work out. What does joy mean to you?
- Read Psalm 126:3 again. According to this verse, what is the reason we are filled with joy?
- Name three great things in your life, things that fill your life with joy!
An Adult Perspective
Happiness and joy, what’s the difference? I heard a pastor describe it like this: “Happiness is an outward emotion based on circumstance, but joy is internal. It comes from God.” So regardless of my circumstance, I can choose to be joyful.
Choice is a very powerful and spiritual path!
The bible doesn’t state I will understand the trials I may face. God’s Word never guarantees my life will be free of pain, disappointment, or sorrow. But Christ does promise, “If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” John 15:10-11 (NIV)
My joy can be made complete by obeying God’s commands, remaining in His love, and allowing His joy to be present in my daily life. Sounds easy, right? No way! I have faced personal challenges where I struggled to find joy in the midst of the crisis. At those times being happy seemed impossible, almost laughable, until I realized that having a joyful attitude was the better goal to strive for. I couldn’t control the circumstances, but I could choose to stand firm in obeying God’s commands. After being deliberate with my choice, I could sense His love and joy in my heart.
My life will always have trials and challenges, but I’m getting better at choosing to use them as opportunities to build my character, grow my faith, and experience joy as Christ intended. “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.” James 1:2-3 (NLT)
Choice is a very powerful and spiritual path. Choose to experience God’s joy in your heart!
