The Source of True Joy

Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness is often tied to what’s happening around us, a new opportunity, a good report, a special celebration. But joy is rooted deeper. It is a gift from God that remains steady even when life around us is shifting. The psalmist reminds us that joy is found in God’s presence. It is not something we earn or manufacture, it’s a fruit of intimacy with Him. Psalm 16:11 – “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”

When Jesus spoke to His disciples in John 15, He wanted them to know that joy was part of their inheritance as believers. His desire was not for them to live life weighed down by circumstances but to experience the fullness of His joy. John 15:11 – “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”As we step into this month, let’s shift our pursuit from external pleasures to internal presence. Joy is not “out there” waiting to be found, it’s “in here,” growing stronger as we stay connected to God.