8 Insights for Finding Joy in the Lord

Continued joy should be ours as believers in Christ Jesus. I know this may seem unrealistic or unattainable to some, but trust me, I have seen all the spectrums of life, from the highs to the lows. I experienced life in such a hopeless state that I never thought I would have joy again.

I can testify to you today that God didn’t leave me hopeless. He brought me out of despair and restored my life, filling me with joy.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 is real in my life; I can live to encourage others. That brief period of hopelessness and lack of joy in my life will serve as a foundation to give hope to others, urging them not to give up on finding joy and to keep their eyes on the Lord. I fought to have joy in my life every single day. I didn’t quit, and you shouldn’t either.

It is 100% possible for you to have joy daily!

What is Joy?

On the day of salvation, the Holy Spirit comes to live inside you. A part of who He is, the fruit He brings with Him. One component of that fruit is Joy. Believe it or not, you have joy inside you, whether you feel like it or not. It is there for you to draw upon and bring it forth.

Let me explain joy in the Bible in simple terms. Unlike happiness, which comes and goes based on what’s happening around us, biblical joy is much more profound. It’s like having unshakeable confidence and peace from knowing God loves you and is always with you, even when life gets tough! You will have a pervasive sense of well-being, freedom, and gratitude.

Think of it this way: happiness is like the weather (changing constantly), but joy is more like the climate (steady and lasting). Biblical joy isn’t about walking around with a fake smile or pretending everything’s perfect. Instead, this deep-seated contentment and hope come from having a real relationship with God.

Philippians 4:4 tells us to “Rejoice in the Lord always.” Notice it doesn’t say “feel happy all the time,” it points us to finding joy IN THE LORD. That’s the key difference! When we root our joy in God rather than our circumstances, we can experience this amazing gift even during life’s most challenging moments.

Why is Joy a Must

Joy isn’t just for us to have this velvety feeling inside us to make us feel good and put a smile on our faces. Here are many reasons why you need to fight for joy:

Strength

I don’t know about you, but a glance at the news, social media, the communities that we live in, our workplace, or even our own families shows that we need joy! Life, in itself, independent from God, will suck the life out of you.

God’s joy will give you spiritual and emotional strength to face all the challenges you encounter daily. It helps us persevere through trials and hardships with an eternal perspective.

Powerful Witness

I come in contact with people who have infectious well-being. They are oozing joy. Something is different and noticeable about them. You want what they have. Then, you realize that they are Christians. Because of that, they draw people who need Jesus to them.

When we serve God, we sincerely trust who God is in our lives. That trust transfers over to a rejoicing that is a glorious, inexpressible joy. People will see; it will be a witness of Christ Jesus to them.

Enhances Worship

Years ago, my wife and I were camping with some friends. My buddy’s wife was trying to start a fire but insisted on doing it without any gas; the good old-fashioned way: paper, twigs, and a match. Well, it wasn’t going well for her. Needless to say, I got a cup of gas, poured it into the fire pit, threw a lit match on it, and poof! We had a blazing fire.

Adding joy to our worship is like gas on a campfire. The flames of our praise will grow higher and stronger. Joy mixed with our worship will be more powerful and moving. Our worship becomes richer, fuller, and more complete when infused with genuine joy.

Joy Overcomes Depression

We must continually fill ourselves with joy. Sometimes, this requires us to be intentional about it and remind ourselves of God’s Word in areas where we may struggle. As we do, we will see ourselves being shielded by His incredible joy.

I have shared many times in other blogs about my life, which was a great struggle. I battled day after day to even live. In one particular incident, I made some dumb life choices. Because of the decisions I made, they radically changed our lives and put us in a terrible position. As I struggled to deal with it, I had to put God’s Word on my notepad on my phone. I forced myself to read the scriptures over and over. It was the only thing I knew to do.

I can testify today that God delivered me. I am in a great place in my life, walking in the fullness of joy, but I genuinely believe it was because I decided to force myself to consume God’s Word and have faith that I would be restored.

Joy Enhances Our Relationship with God

When we devote our time to God by being with Him, the Bible says there will be joy in His presence. I don’t want to minimize our relationship with God, but it’s like spending time with your spouse. The more quality time you spend together, the deeper your relationship grows and the more joy you find in their company.

In God’s presence, we can fill up on joy more so.

Finding Joy in the Lord

Finding joy and learning to keep it is key. James 1:2 tells us we can have joy even in great trouble. This may seem impossible to some, but in my own life, as difficult as it was, I forced myself to walk in joy during one of my great trials. It was a moment-by-moment situation in my life. There were times I didn’t think I would ever have joy again, but I can tell you this: the fight was worth every bit of it.

Today, I can look back on when I lost most everything and look at my life now. I have been transformed in so many ways for the good. I am a better person than I was then. I have an overflow of joy in my life.

I promise any of you reading this blog post that joy is there for you, and it is worth finding.

1. Surrendering to God’s Will

To be followers of Christ and to enjoy His benefits, we must surrender our whole lives to Him. Romans 12:1 tells us to give our bodies to God because of all He has done for us. There is no other way to look at it. We can’t spin this one, but many people do. They will limit how much they want to give to God, but sadly, miss out on what He has for them.

Letting go of our limited plans brings overwhelming peace and joy. By doing so, we gain purpose and fulfillment by aligning with God’s will, plans, and purpose for our lives.

For me, it took years to reach the place I am in my life now. I have lived a partial life, straddling the fence of my plans and God’s. I don’t want it anymore. Today, I don’t struggle to give God my all. I don’t want any part of my own decisions. I have experienced pain and misery from taking up my torch for my life. Time and again, it has led to depression, hopelessness, and a lack of joy. Every time I have followed God’s plan, I have found total peace and joy.

Once you learn to follow Him by carrying His cross, that lifestyle will become an addiction because of the result of doing so.

2. Abiding in Christ

Abiding in Christ is twofold: it’s relational and obedience. Think of it this way, if you are a parent. What kind of relationship would you have with your child if all they wanted to do was to spend quality time with you, but wouldn’t obey you? Or vice versa, they would obey you, but didn’t want to be around you. That is a broken relationship. Either way, the child is making it difficult for you as a parent to pour joy and pleasure into them.

But it would be a complete relationship if your child wants to spend quality time with you while obeying you. Your heart would be whole as a parent. Therefore, your joy and pleasure for your child are being poured into them.

The Word of God is clear. When we abide in Jesus and obey His commandments, we will be filled with His joy.

One final note: we can’t claim ignorance of the Word of God in knowing the commandments of Jesus. We have His written Word. It’s up to us to read, understand, and apply it to our lives.

3. Consuming God’s Word

According to the Center for Bible Engagement, a groundbreaking study showed that reading the Bible four or more times a week profoundly affects a person’s life. The research found that those who engaged with scripture at least four times weekly were:

• Reduced Negative Behaviors: Individuals are significantly less likely to engage in destructive behaviors, with specific reductions such as:

  
  

  • 61% lower odds of viewing pornography

  • 57% lower odds of alcoholism

  • 68% lower odds of sexual sin

  • 32% lower odds of anger issues

  • 40% lower odds of bitterness in relationships

    
    

• Improved Emotional Well-Being: Regular Bible engagement correlates with:

  
  

  • 30% lower likelihood of feeling lonely

  • 60% lower feelings of spiritual stagnation

    
    

• Increased Positive Behaviors: Those engaging with scripture at least four times a week show:

  
  

  • 228% higher likelihood of sharing their faith with others

  • 407% higher likelihood of memorizing scripture

  • Greater boldness in evangelism and discipleship

    
    

Consider Jeremiah 15:16 and the statistics from this recent study from the “Center for Bible Engagement.” Reading God’s Word consistently has a profound impact on our lives. Jeremiah wrote, “I devoured your words; they are my joy, my heart’s delight!”

I genuinely believe there is a point in our walk with the Lord when reading the Word of God is not a chore but something we look forward to. Sometimes, we must do it in faith and push ourselves to do so. We need to be intentional about it.

There have been times when I have not wanted to read my Bible. I have prayed to the Lord to give me a heart’s desire to read His Word, and He has always come through.

4. Communicating with God Through Prayer

Prayer connects us with the provider of joy. God deposits that joy inside us through His Holy Spirit as we live in Christ. This beautiful scripture reminds us that when we take the initiative to draw near to God through prayer, He faithfully responds by drawing near to us. This mutual drawing creates an intimate space to experience His presence and joy deeply.

Another way to look at it, what kind of relationship would a married couple have without any communication? We all know communication is one of the key pillars within a marriage. It is the same for any relationship that we have in our lives. That goes into having a relationship with the Lord.

As we communicate consistently with our spouses, we benefit in many ways. As we consistently seek God through prayer, we will gain the fruits of an intimate relationship with Him, and one component is joy.

5. Worship and Singing

When we worship and sing to the Lord, it changes the whole atmosphere. Just as something can suck the life out of a room, worship and singing can flood the presence of God into the room.

God isn’t the one who needs worship and singing. He is not some egomaniac. We need to worship and sing unto Him for our benefit. When we do so, we change our focus from ourselves and life’s problems to Him. He is our deliverer and the one with fantastic promises.

Our whole outlook is changed in a moment when we begin to give Him praise and worship. What we once thought was impossible suddenly becomes possible, especially when we mix worship with faith and His written promises.

If we allow it, joy can be covered or suffocated. We can go days, weeks, months, or even years without permitting it to spill into our lives. Praise and worship are ways to take the lid off and pour it all over us.

Final note: Praise and worship don’t come naturally to me. So, if you find yourself like me, we must do it more in faith. As you do, it will flow more easily. Also, what was once uncommon will become more common in your life.

6. Practice Thankfulness and Gratitude

Thankfulness and gratitude go hand in hand, but there are subtle distinctions worth noting. Thankfulness tends to be more shallow or circumstantial, while gratitude is a deeper, more comprehensive, and enduring state of appreciation. Thankfulness often feeds into gratitude.

But this is where it gets good when you throw joy into the mix. Because all three are feeding off of each other, it’s an endless cycle that will continue if you don’t break the cycle.

Follow me here; you will see an incredible revelation worth remembering to keep your joy tank full.

Thanksgiving leads to joy when we express gratitude; it opens our hearts to recognize God’s goodness. Thankfulness shifts our focus from problems to God’s faithfulness. Grateful hearts are more receptive to experiencing God’s joy.

Then joy inspires gratitude when we experience God’s joy, it naturally leads to thanksgiving. Joy helps us recognize more reasons to be thankful. A joyful heart tends to overflow with gratitude.

If your head is spinning, just remember to practice thankfulness and gratitude intentionally. As you do, you will experience an endless supply of joy.

7. Serving Others

Years ago, my pastor shared a story about Charles, a man who attended our church. They were in Mexico together, serving on a mission. They had just exited the grocery store; Charles noticed a woman loading her car with groceries. He ran over to help her finish putting the groceries in her car. My pastor used that story to minister on serving others. I never forgot that message, inspiring me to serve others more.

It’s no secret that Jesus came to serve mankind. He often spoke of the importance of being a servant. Not only is this His nature, but it is also who our Father God is. As believers in Christ, we are to be Jesus' hands and feet. We are to be an example to the world around us.

When we serve others, we mirror God’s giving nature. Since we are created in His image, fulfilling this aspect of our design brings natural joy. In Romans 12:6-8, Apostle Paul encourages us to recognize that God has graced us with gifts to impact other people’s lives and that we are to do them with excellence. As we serve with excellence, we align with our spiritual purpose, which brings joy.

Also, serving others creates a meaningful connection with people, fulfilling our God-given need for community and belonging.

8. Having Love for Others

We all have heard that God is love. Sadly, society has abused this word on so many levels. We use it to wink at sin by recognizing something may be sinful while saying, “It’s okay; God understands, and HE loves me.”

Then we have watered it down as well. I love pizza, I love this song, and I love going to Florida on vacation. Pretty soon, love doesn’t mean anything. It’s a filler word for our vocabulary. I am not trying to be a grammar stickler, but we should never become desensitized to the word love.

Jesus encouraged us to remain in His love. We do so by obeying His commandments. One of those commandments is: LOVE EACH OTHER IN THE SAME WAY I HAVE LOVED YOU. That is the Kingdom of God in action.

People will say, ”I don’t like people and don’t want to love them.” I think that can be said for many reasons. Maybe that person has been hurt in the past. For whatever reason, a person says that, a true believer in Christ Jesus can’t. We must allow the love of God in our hearts to come out towards others. If you want to learn how to do so, I encourage you to read my article on “40 Ways: How to Love Your Neighbor as Yourself.”

What is cool is that Jesus said that as you walk out his commandment of loving others, you will be FILLED WITH HIS JOY, and YOUR JOY WILL OVERFLOW!!

Bringing it Together

As believers in Christ Jesus, we are called to live in the fullness of joy, which is not fleeting like happiness but rooted deep in our relationship with God. My journey has shown me that no matter how dark life gets, God’s joy is a lifeline that pulls us out of despair and into hope.

It’s not just a nice-to-have; it’s our strength, witness, and fuel for worship. By surrendering to God’s will, abiding in Christ, consuming His Word, praying, worshiping, practicing gratitude, serving others, and loving like Jesus, we unlock an endless flow of joy that transforms us and impacts those around us.

Don’t let life’s challenges steal what’s yours through the Holy Spirit. Fight for joy daily because it’s not just possible, it’s God’s promise that we can have it. Choose to lean into God’s presence, trust His plan, and let His joy overflow in your life. You won’t regret it.

Devotional Questions

1. The post describes joy as a lifeline that pulls us out of despair and into hope.” What spiritual practices have served as your lifeline during seasons of darkness, and how might you intentionally strengthen these practices before the next storm?

   
   

2. When you reflect on the eight joy practices mentioned (surrendering to God’s will, abiding in Christ, consuming His Word, praying, worshiping, practicing gratitude, serving others, and loving like Jesus), which one feels most challenging for you right now, and why might God be using that particular challenge to deepen your joy?

   
   

3. The post mentions joy as our strength, and it’s much deeper than happiness. Can you recall a time when God’s joy sustained you through difficulty? How might sharing that testimony help someone else who’s currently struggling to access the joy that’s promised to them?

   
   

Scriptures for Joy

Nehemiah 8:10 (NLT) — 10 And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!”

Psalm 16:11 (NLT) — 11 You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever.

Psalm 22:26 (NLT) — 26 The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the Lord will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy.

Psalm 59:16 (NLT) — 16 But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.

Psalm 70:4 (NLT) — 4 But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, “God is great!”

Isaiah 55:12 (NLT) — 12 You will live in joy and peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands!

Matthew 13:20 (NLT) — 20 The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy.

John 15:11 (NLT) — 11 I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

John 16:24 (NLT) — 24 You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.

Acts 13:52 (NLT) — 52 And the believers were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13 (NLT) — 13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Galatians 5:22 (NLT) — 22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

Philippians 4:4 (NLT) — 4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!

1 Thessalonians 1:6 (NLT) — 6 So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 (NLT) — 16 Always be joyful. 17 Never stop praying. 18 Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Philemon 7 (NLT) — 7 Your love has given me much joy and comfort, my brother, for your kindness has often refreshed the hearts of God’s people.

1 Peter 1:8–9 (NLT) — 8 You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. 9 The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls.

Frequently Ask Question

1. What are some barriers to experiencing joy in your life?

It is essential to note the list below. You can find yourself fighting to have joy in your life while feeling like you are taking one step forward and three steps back. These are the times you have to be honest with yourself and self-examine.

• Unaddressed sin and disobedience disrupt peace (Matthew 5:24).

• Guilt from past sins or half-hearted repentance hinders joy.

• Pride and self-focus obstruct God’s joy (Ephesians 1:4).

• Legalism and reliance on works diminish grace-based joy (Romans 5:2).

• Resistance to God’s leading, as exemplified by Jonah.

• Worldly pursuits (e.g., success, material gain) lead to emptiness.

  
  

2. Can joy be found in the darkest of times?

In the darkest of times, joy might seem like a distant dream, but even amid our deepest struggles, the spark of divine joy can burn brightly. There is evidence in the biblical story of Paul and Silas, singing hymns of praise while chained in prison (Acts 16:25). This serves as an inspiring reminder that true joy is not attached to our circumstances, but rests in the confidence of our faith and the unyielding presence of God’s love.

The biblical account of Joseph stands as another stunning example of discovering joy amid adversity (Genesis 39-41). Though betrayed by his brothers and unjustly imprisoned, Joseph maintained his unwavering faith in God’s plan. His eventual rise to power in Egypt was a testament to the profound joy that can flourish when trusting God’s greater purpose. Joseph’s journey reminds us that every challenge can pave the way to blessings beyond our imagination.

Countless people of God have found joy in some of their darkest times. Their spiritual will aligned with Philippians 4:13, where the Apostle Paul writes, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” When we rise above difficult challenges, finding strength and peace through a deeper connection with the Lord, vibrant joy can spark and fill our hearts' deepest desires.

3. How can you share your joy with others?

Sharing joy with others is a beautiful thing! The Bible has a lot to say about this. In Philippians 2:17-18 (NLT), Paul writes, “But I will rejoice even if I lose my life, pouring it out like a liquid offering to God, just like your faithful service is an offering to God. And I want all of you to share that joy. 18 Yes, you should rejoice, and I share your joy.” This shows us that joy isn’t meant to be kept to ourselves - it’s meant to be shared and celebrated together!

Think about it: when you’re filled with God’s joy, it naturally overflows into others. It’s like what Jesus said in John 15:11 (NLT): “I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” When we share our testimonies, encourage others, and show God’s love, we share pieces of that divine joy. It’s contagious in the best possible way!

And here’s something cool - when we share joy, it multiplies! The early church showed us this perfectly. Acts 2:46-47 (NLT) tells us, “They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— 47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” Through simple acts like sharing meals, worshiping together, or being there for each other, we can spread joy like wildfire in our communities!

Shawn Paul is an author who lives in Kentucky. He is passionate about living for Jesus Christ and inspiring others to do the same, which is the focus of his blog, where he shares Biblical topics to help your walk with the Lord.

Shawn enjoys spending time with his wife of 38 years. Bicycling is one of their favorite pastimes. They also have two daughters and 4 grandkids.

As a writer, Shawn's unique perspective and passion for his faith shine through in his work. It is his desire to impact people for the Gospel around the world in various ways.