Our understanding of ultimate joy is rooted in our moment-by-moment act of worshiping God in our hearts and minds.
The source of real joy is our Creator.
Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.[Psalm100]
Real joy strengthens us through trials and difficulties in life.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
[James 1:2-5]
God also gives us gifts–family, community, homes, lands, things, events–that are holy or had been set aside by the Creator-Provider so that we may rejoice!
Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
[Nehemiah 8:10]
