Let’s face it. It’s hard to find joy these days. Looking at the news can be devastating. We live in a society where every other day the flags are at half mast. People immediately choose sides, and emotions rule our actions rather than reason. It’s easy to feel like the junk of this world is constantly swirling around us like an vicious tornado.
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. -John 16:33b
So, what exactly does “take heart” mean? I believe it means we focus on the fact that nothing surprises God. God is always in control even when our surroundings and circumstances feel like chaos.
Christians have a hope beyond this temporary world. Focusing on eternity allows us to find joy in the midst of the insanity. If we have joy ourselves, we can use it to encourage others. If the people around us are overwhelmed and beat down, demonstrating joy in our lives may open a door to share our ultimate reason for joy: salvation through Jesus.
How do we get there? How do we find joy? Reflecting on and memorizing scripture is a great place to begin.
10 Verses on Joy
For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. -Psalm 30:5
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. -Psalm 118:24
Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart. -Psalm 119:111
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. -Proverbs 17:22
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. -Isaiah 12:3
Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and a delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts. -Jeremiah 15:16
When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. -Matthew 2:10
These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. -John 15:11
My lips will shout for joy, when I sing praises to you; my soul also, which you have redeemed. -Acts 71:23
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. -Romans 15:13
The Bible speaks of joy in many other verses. Use this list as a starting point for building a foundation of joy in your life.