A while back I received a gift of three Christmas themed blocks spelling out J O Y. They ended up sitting out all year – who can’t use a little extra joy? My friend let word get back to the artist of their daily use and she graciously created a new set for me without the holiday motif. I thanked her for the everyday JOY but the phrase stuck with me, “everyday joy.”
Joy isn’t seasonal. It doesn’t show up only for big celebrations and happy occasions. Joy from God is for every single day. Yes, even on days that I’m not happy.
Joy is much different than happiness. Happiness resides in our outer circumstances. Joy results from the inner reality of our relationship with God. Our hope and trust lie in Him alone, giving an assurance that results in joy. That’s why even in the midst of difficult times we can still experience the joy of God in our lives. Circumstance didn’t cause the joy and it can’t take it away.
In His great love God gave me a joy that’s not reserved for special occasions, but can be mine every single day.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
You can get your own everyday joy reminders, here.
