The Choice to Rejoice

Is it possible to stay positive in a negative world? Is there such a thing as "true" happiness? Why are some people more joyful than others? Where does joy come from?

As we look at the next fruit of the Spirit - joy - we must make sure we understand its meaning. Joy is an inside job and does not depend on circumstances. Happiness depends on happenings. Joy is an attitude; a choice. Happiness comes and goes.

Paul tells us in Romans 5: 2b, that we can rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. It's been said that a person can live forty days without food, three days without water, eight minutes without air, by not one minute without hope! Many people have hope, but they are not basing it on anything solid. Many people base it on the wrong things: the stock market, good looks, a big salary, a nice job, a good family with obedient children, etc. BUT all these things are temporary and can be taken away in a heartbeat. When they disappear, so does hope. And joy is impossible without hope.

Where does hope come from and how do we get it? First, because of our faith in Christ, we can see that no situation is hopeless. Romans 5:2..."Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege..and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing in God's glory." (NLT) Second, we can see that God has a purpose in every situation. Romans 5:3-4...."We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance and endurance develops character and character strengthens our confident hope..." (NLT). Third, we can know that God is always with us, no matter where we are or what we're facing. Romans 5:11.."So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends with God!" (NLT)

So what are you putting your hope in? What happenings are you going to base your happiness on today? If you really want to understand joy, I encourage you to read the book of Philippians. Nineteen times in this short letter, Paul talks about rejoicing and having joy - and he was in a nasty, dirty, rat-infested, no cable tv or workout facility prison when he wrote this book!!

No matter what your day brings, make the choice to rejoice and cling to Nehemiah's words ..... "This day is sacred to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the JOY of the Lord is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10)