Remaining Joyful in Uncertain Times

There is a distinct difference between happy and being joyful. Being happy usually involves something that is acquired from outside of you. Being joyful is usually associated with feeling excitement on the inside. 

The feeling of joy isn’t necessarily dependent on what’s going on around you, but rather what’s going on inside of you. Joy will always bring you peace because being happy is often short-lived. Being joyful, especially as a Christian living in this world, can at times be challenging. 

These days it’s important to not become weary but to be joyful. We shouldn’t focus our attention on the negative aspects of life. We can’t sit in the things that are going on around us. We must focus on the good things in life that bring us great joy. It’s some of the simple things that can bring us joy. Waking up to another day that the Lord has made, thanking the Lord for that cup of coffee, and spending time with our loved ones that the Lord has blessed us with can bring us joy. 

Joy is Found in the Lord

Joy is found in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The One who shed his blood for our soul brings me great joy. Whenever I find myself feeling unhappy and in need of joy, I turn to the Word of God. I’m reminded of a timely Bible verse in the book of Psalms that often soothes my worries and anxieties. It’s an encouraging message from David to be glad, rejoice in the Lord and praise God. This is such an encouraging Bible verse because no matter what things may appear to be, we can always give glory to God in all circumstances.

“Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!”

Psalm 32:11, NIV

Joy is Found in Serving Others

If we ever lack the feeling of being joyful, we can take the emphasis off of ourselves to serve others. This not only brings comfort to the person you’re helping but this will also bring joy into your heart. You’re doing the work of God just by helping bring light into their life. The love and light you gave them will spread onto someone else. Being a cheerful giver pleases God and brings hope to the world.

“The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”

Proverbs 11:25, NIV

Joy is Found in Every Season 

Every moment in our life may not be happy moments, however, that doesn’t mean that we can’t find the simple joys in everyday living. During our times of despair, it may seem difficult to seek out joy. When we’re sad or brokenhearted, we can still find comfort in knowing that Jesus is with us always. We weren’t created to be hopeless but to be hopeful and joyful. In Romans, there is a very familiar Bible verse that echoes great encouragement to set our eyes on hope, to rejoice, and pray. This leads us to being joyful. I can’t stress enough how imperative it is to seek The One who gives us all that we need and more. If you ever lack joy in your life, seek Jesus.

 “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

Romans 12:12, NIV

Keshia Cunningham

Monthly Contributor