I'm sure some people would define joy as happiness and having everything going your way, but REAL Joy is different. Joy and Happiness are two different things.
This week at church was the third week of Advent and the theme was Joy. Joy is an elusive characteristic. Many people search for it, but it seems few find it. Happiness is about being content in current circumstances where joy is about being content and having peace no matter the circumstances. This does not mean that we are happy about circumstances that are sad or difficult, but it does mean that we have an inner peace no matter the circumstances. It is interesting to note that in the Bible there are many verses that list BOTH joy and happiness so it is apparent that they are two distinct emotions.
You have filled me with joy, and happiness has risen in my heart, great delight and unrivaled joy, even more than when bread abounds and wine flows freely. Psalm 4:7
If we look at the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, we can see a difference between the two. Mary was a young, unmarried but engaged, girl when Gabriel visited her to announce that she would give birth to Jesus. While Mary praised God at the time for allowing her to carry His Son, I can imagine that she also met this circumstance with UNhappiness. To others it would appear that she had been unfaithful to her betrothed and these circumstances certainly brought shame to her and her family, as well as uncertainty to Joseph. Despite this unhappiness and a seemingly "bad" situation, Mary still had JOY because she knew that God was in control and that she was being used as a part of His plan.
You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice over his birth. Luke 1:14
The key to having JOY is God, pure and simple. Following God and Jesus and striving to do their will gives Joy, even if it brings unhappiness. Despite circumstances, Joy (and thus peace and contentment) can be found in God. May you find God this Christmas season and may He bless you with JOY!
Instead, You direct me on the path that leads to a beautiful life. As I walk with You, the pleasures are never-ending, and I know true joy and contentment. Psalm 16:11
Until this moment, you have not sought after anything in My name. Ask and you will receive so that you will be filled with joy. John 16:24
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