Our Scripture for today is Luke 6:23:
“Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven.”
Notice that Jesus does not say to “be happy.” That is because there is a difference between happiness and joy.
Many people say, especially in times of struggle, “God wants me to be happy.” But the Bible never says that. God does want us to have joy, but joy is much deeper than happiness.
Happiness is often the good feeling that comes when life goes our way—when we get a promotion, have a wonderful meal, or spend time with friends. But happiness is fleeting. It shifts with our circumstances, coming and going like the weather.
Joy, on the other hand, is something deeper, something internal that stays with us regardless of what happens. Joy is rooted in faith, and the assurance that God is with us. It’s an enduring sense of peace that remains even in the toughest moments of life.
Think of happiness as a burst of sunshine—it’s light and warm, but temporary. Joy, however, is like an inner fire that keeps burning, giving warmth and light, even on the darkest days.
You may not always feel “happy,” especially during hard days. But through faith, gratitude, and the assurance of God’s promises, joy remains, sustaining you when happiness fades.
Happiness comes and goes. Joy remains with you during life’s storms, even while happiness fades with each drop of rain.
I’m Lonnie Davis and these are thoughts worth thinking.