True joy is not fleeting, it isn’t contingent on external circumstances. It is deep and it abides in a sense of peace and contentment that is rooted in something greater than us. In Scripture, joy is often tied to the presence of God. The Psalmist writes, “In your presence is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore” Psalm 16:11. This joy flows from an intimate relationship with God, one that brings our souls into communion with our creator.
Knowing God is more than just being aware of his existence. It involves understanding his character—his love, justice, mercy, and faithfulness—and experiencing his presence.
The joy of knowing God comes from understanding who he is. God is infinitely good, wise, and loving. When we come to know him, we encounter a love that is unconditional and a wisdom that transcends human understanding. We realize that, in all things, God is working for our good Romans 8:28, and this assurance brings deep peace and comfort, regardless of any pain and loss that we might face.
God is a Father who cares for his children with a perfect love. God is sovereign and he sees things from a heavenly view - unlike us with such a limited view.
One of the most profound aspects of knowing God is the realization that we belong to Him. We are not left to navigate life’s difficulties on our own. This incredible relationship gives us a sense of identity and purpose. We are not defined by our strongholds or our accomplishments but by the fact that we are loved by the creator of the universe.
Now I spend as much time as I can celebrating the fact that we are not limited to this life, but our lives extend into eternity. Heaven is a real place where God’s people will be with him forever, free from pain, shame, and sadness. There, I will be reunited with my daughter forever!
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelation 21:4
Some tools that we can use to find true Joy:
-Spend time daily in prayer, communicating openly with God, asking for his help in overcoming negative thoughts and emotions. Prayer creates a dialogue that brings clarity and peace.
-Allow time in quiet meditation on scripture, daily. Concentrating on uplifting verses from the Bible, renewing your mind and focusing on positive, faith-filled thoughts. encourages focusing on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things.” Philippians 4:8
-Go ahead and surrender your control, trusting God’s plan. Sometimes, negativity comes from wanting control of every situation. By surrendering your worries to God, trusting his plan for your life, you open yourself up to peace and a positive outlook.
-Letting go of fear, because fear is a root cause of negative emotions. Verses like Isaiah 41:10 remind us that God is with us, eliminating the need for fear. “So do not fear, for I am with you: do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you: I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
-Practicing gratitude can shift the focus from what’s wrong to what’s right in your life. Regularly thanking God for his blessings, big and small, can reshape your mindset toward positivity.
-Writing down things you're thankful for each day, reflecting on what God is doing in your life will solidify your faith and serve as a memorial of all he is done.
-Seek Encouragement from others, surrounding yourself with people who share a positive, faith-driven outlook can inspire and lift you up!
-Practice accountability - this will lift your burden by sharing your struggles with people that you can trust and who can pray for you and keep you accountable in maintaining a God-focused mindset.
-Memorize scripture, this is powerful in combating negativity. Verses like Romans 12:2
"Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" help us to focus our minds on God’s truth.
-Practice affirmations based on faith by speaking scripture over your life, reinforcing God’s promises for peace, joy, and love and patience.
-Practice acts of kindness…serving others not only brings joy to them but helps to shift your focus from internal struggles to external blessings. It mirrors God’s love and can diminish negative thinking.
In the 4th chapter of Jonah, it says that God provided a gourd vine to bring Jonah shade and protect him - what will God provide for you?
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