Lookin’ for Joy

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So many lives are filled with broken relationships and emotional dysfunction. People are looking for happiness, but so few know how to find it. What is the secret to capturing joy, that enduring kind of happiness that gets us through the toughest of times?

 

The apostle Paul writes, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4) 

 

Joy is a command, but it is also a choice.

 

We have been sold a false bill of goods. We are led to believe that joy comes from personal gain. Happiness is winning the lottery. It’s finding that a relative has left us lots of money. It’s two new cars in the driveway. But is that really joy? 

 

Paul did not just tell us to be joyful, but he gave us a profound example from his own life. “I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am” (Philippians 4, The Message).

 

That’s the secret. Joy is not found in having; it’s found only in the source of joy. That source, of course, is Jesus. He is the One who plants His joy in our hearts. His joy produces contentment and happiness.

 

Knowing Christ means knowing the source of all wisdom, power, beauty, and joy. Every good thing comes from His hand, and He freely gives to God’s children. So, my friend, when you’re having one of those days when everything seems to be going wrong and your first inclination is to complain or be depressed, rejoice in Christ for who He is and what He’s done for you.

 



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  • FC&A Staff Writer