Joy is a tricky word. It seems hard to define and sometimes even more elusive to experience. The stresses we face, the internal struggles we fight, and the suffering we see around us, can make the joy that the Bible talks about seem confusing or even out of reach for us today. But Scripture tells us that joy is a reality for Christians even in the midst of pain or difficulties. We see the prophet Habakkuk find joy in the middle of his lament over the judgement and suffering of Judah (Hab 3:18), and the Apostle Paul wrote some of his most fervent words about joy while he was in prison (see Philippians). Joy, even in hard times, is possible because it’s not based on our ever-changing temporal circumstances. Christian joy is an inward delight brought about by our relationship with God. It is a by-product—a result—of our life in Him. That is why Paul lists joy as a “fruit of the Spirit” in Galatians 5:22 along with love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These “fruits” are what grow in our spiritual life because of God’s work in our lives. 

But what should we do if joy doesn’t seem to be a part of our Christian experience right now? There was a time when I would purposefully “choose joy” in the morning, but it would disappear before lunch. And it’s hard to be joyful when you’re upset that you’re not joyful! What I have learned from Scripture is that joy is not found through my exertion to summon it up but through my cooperation with God’s Spirit to live a life where joy can thrive by His grace and power. As we walk each day with Him, we can do things to make our lives a place where He can work, and fruit can grow. 

As we focus on joy this week, here are 3 things Scripture tells us we can do to cultivate joy: 

1. Joy is found as we spend time with God.

Psalm 16:11 “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Being with God gives us profound joy because it is what we were made for. As Christians, we are blessed with the indwelling Holy Spirit, and therefore, always have God’s presence inside of us. His Spirit enables us to desire the right things, including wanting to grow closer to our Lord. Like any relationship, we grow closer as we spend time together. As we spend time with God through the study of His Word, prayer, and worship, we come to know Him more. Specifically, we come to see His character more clearly, understand more of His ways, rest more and more in His promises, and experience the delight that comes from knowing all these things personally.

2. Joy is found as we enjoy God’s ways and works.

Psalm 92:4 “For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy.”  In contrast to the world, God’s ways and works are always right and holy. It gives us joy to know that God is good and always works rightly in all things. It gives us joy to see His good purposes being fulfilled in Scripture and to trust the promises of Scripture that say He will prevail over all evil in the end. Take note of verses that describe who God is and how He works—it will give you joy to observe Him and to know that this is your God. 

3. Joy is found as we follow Him.

John 15:11 “I have told you these things so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.” In Jesus’ last sermon recorded in John 13-17, he gives his final instructions and teaching to his disciples before his crucifixion. He explains in John 15:11 that he tells them “these things” for their joy. By obeying Jesus’ words as the disciples were instructed to do, we can experience joy, too. For it is in following Christ by living holy lives full of humility, service, and love—not following our own sinful ways—that we experience joy. 

So, this week (and beyond!), don’t think of joy as unattainable or a mystery. Experience inward delight as you spend time with God, as you observe His character and ways in Scripture, and as you walk in obedience to His commands. Whether your week is full of good times or bad, God offers us a path to joy in Him. What a gracious Father we have!