Joy can be an elusive quality in our lives but it is something that we search after and deeply desire. We want it but we often don’t find it. In fact, rather than joy, many of us are living with an underlying depression, irritation and even anger due to the Covid epidemic, political and relational divisions, and current economic realities. There is not much joy to be found in our current circumstances.

We often think that joy comes when we have adequate financial resources, have the perfect marriage, that extra large flat screen television, or better health. In the ultimate irony, the banks sell credit cards as sources of joy - notice all the smiling faces in their ads as people are able to finance their new toy or grand vacation, notwithstanding the fact that, for many, that very credit card brings financial bondage and debt. 

Here is the problem with joy. It cannot be found in our external circumstances or world. We actually know that if we think about our lives. When joy is dependent on life going our way and pleasant circumstances it is a fleeting joy because that is not how life happens. It becomes an elusive prize because life circumstances change and often don’t go our preferred way.

Here is what we learn from Scripture. Joy comes from the inside not the outside, and that inside reservoir is the Holy Spirit in our lives. Only God can give us true joy and if our joy comes from Him, it is not dependent on our outward circumstances. Rather, we can live with joy regardless of our life circumstances. 

Consider what Jesus said about joy and where it comes from.

“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” John 15:11

“Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” John 16:22

“I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them.” John 17:13

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

The common denominator in all these verses is this: Joy comes from God, so if you desire joy, the place to find it is in developing your relationship with Him. Because joy comes from God, it is not dependent on our outward circumstances. We can walk with joy every day and in every circumstance if we are walking with Him and allowing the Holy Spirit to flood our life. 

You can walk with joy today. Ask God for it. Focus on Him. Talk to Him. Spend time with Him. Be mindful of all that He has done for you. Remind yourself that you are His son or daughter and that there is nothing that can separate you from His love. He is the source of your joy and nothing can rob you of that joy. 

Father, help me to look for joy in the right place. In You and You alone. May your Holy Spirit fill me with the joy of your love and presence today. Help me to walk in joy regardless of my circumstances. You are my source of joy. Amen.