Happiness and joy. Two great ideas that go great together. But are they only available together? Happiness is something that has to do with circumstance. If our circumstances are favorable, then we are happy. Joy, on the other hand, has more to do with position. We are joyful because of who we are and who we are becoming in Christ. So let's explore this further...
HAPPINESS
Happiness is an emotion that is derived from things that are pleasant to us. When people remember you on your birthday it makes you happy (or maybe it doesn't...I guess that would depend on your view of aging). When people tell you you've done a good job on a project or an endeavor, it makes you happy. But the problem with happiness, is that it is always (ALWAYS) dependent on external circumstances. It depends on what people say or do to you or for you. It depends on your mood, other people's moods, etc. Basically, it is out of your control.
JOY
Joy, on the other hand, is that which is present no matter what. It is a constant, something that we either choose to be or not be. Joy is not defined in the circumstances of our lives, but rather in the state of our hearts. Paul was joyful, even in the midst of a prison cell, or house arrest. It wasn't a pleasant place to be and I'm sure at times he wasn't happy. But he knew how to be joyful even in the midst of such circumstances.
Do we? Do we know how to be joyful people even when we are crying because a good friend passed away? Do we know how to be joyful people even when we have just lost our job? Do we know how to be joyful people even though we've been gossiped about, lied to, cheated on, or betrayed? No matter the circumstances, Christ followers are to be people of joy. I hope that I exude joy, even when I feel tired and irritable. I hope that you can, too!
We'll see you on Sunday!
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