In Others’ Words: Joy

I like to tell people that I don’t aim for happiness because happiness is based on circumstances — and circumstances come and go so quickly that there’s no way to get a firm grasp on happiness.

Instead, I’ve learned to search for joy, something deeper and more substantial than tissue-paper-thin happiness. Joy anchors me no matter what the day holds. I have a choice: to let despair overwhelm me — and shove me over the cliffs — or to choose to remember the reason(s) I have to be joy-filled.

Reasons to be joyful can be hidden in a song … or a Scripture verse … or the voice of my husband or one of my kiddos or a close friend … and Joy can be hidden in silence, when I sit and wait for God’s presence to wash over me, reminding me that I am accepted and loved with an everlasting love.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13 NIV)

In Your Words: Where do you find joy?