You have put more joy in my heart,
than they have when their grain and wine abound.
Psalm 4:7
God's joy is not equal to happiness. Happiness is an emotion that is determined by circumstances. Joy, on the other hand, is from Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). It is not dependent on circumstances or emotions. That is why the Bible continually tells us to rejoice in trials (Romans 5:3; Romans 12:12; Colossians 1:24; 1 Peter 4:13). This joy outweighs anything this world could offer. If we truly believe His joy is so much greater, then why do we seek joy in other things?
When hard times come, it is easier to find satisfaction and happiness in other things. In my experience, seeking things other than God to feel happiness only drove me further away from God. Going to God for joy means submitting and giving up all of yourself to Him (the good, the bad, and the ugly). For me, going to God for joy meant taking a good hard look at the pain in my life and trusting Him to heal me. Instead of trusting my loving heavenly Father, I looked for ways to relieve the pain. This resulted in sin. I turned to popular self-care techniques that did not last, shopping that made me broke, and even reckless behaviors that left a scar.
Those "searches for happiness" did prove as relief in the moment, but would never last. God's joy is the only relief that lasts. Joy does not always take away the pain, but it provides a way to healing. To experience this joy, I had to admit and submit to God all the pain I had hidden. In doing so, I found joy. The joy that gives life to the most barren parts of the soul. The joy that carries you through trials. The joy that is more than all the grain and wine abounding (Psalm 4:7). God is the only one who can provide this joy. God is the only one to carry you through. The key to God's joy in all things is to seek His presence. Where He is, your joy will be.
Grace be with you.
Amen.
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