Topic: "Personal Happiness vs God's Joy”
Last week while doing a leadership course at the Jamaica Theological Seminary, the topic of happiness and joy came up.
I thought, “ what a coincidence”, as it was not too long ago since I heard a young lady at church saying she wanted to be happy about all things.
You might be happy about something, but you may not get lasting happiness. We can get happiness from a lot of things.
Happiness is merely external, fleeting, and is only achievable on earth. Joy, on the other hand, is internal, selfless, sacrificial, and it's a spiritual connection with God.
Happiness and God's joy are related but distinct concepts in the biblical context.
Happiness typically refers to a fleeting emotional state based on circumstances, and often driven by external factors like pleasure, success, or comfort. It's a natural human response to pleasant experiences.
God's joy is a deeper, more profound experience that transcends all human circumstances whether good or bad. It is a spiritual reality rooted in a personal relationship with God, stemming from:-
1. Knowing and trusting God's character and love.
2. Experiencing His presence and guidance.
3. Finding purpose and meaning in serving Him.
4. Resting in His sovereignty and grace.
God's joy is:
- Unshakable (John 16:22)
- Everlasting (Isaiah 51:11)
- Full of glory (John 17:13)
- A fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22)
While happiness may fluctuate, God's joy remains a steady anchor in the midst of life's challenges, providing a deeper sense of peace, contentment, and purpose.
Marcel and Jackie Bruff
@walkgoodinchrist.
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