I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!

John 15:11 NLT

When I was a child, I remember singing this song during Vacation Bible School:

I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy,
Down in my heart (where?)
Down in my heart to stay.
And I’m so happy , so very happy,
I’ve got the love of Jesus in my heart!

A simple but true song based on scripture; “Always be full of Joy in the Lord; Again I say rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). We all want that pure joy that comes from great experiences or that mountain-top blissfulness, but too often we experience trials that rob us of our joy and happiness. Knowing Christ brings true joy that rises above our trials and circumstances. True Joy is HIS gift to every believer and by allowing the Holy Spirit to control our lives produces the fruit of joy. God is both the source and the object of true joy.

Modern life can be all consuming and it’s too easy to be engulfed in the cares and worries of the moment (especially during the hustle and bustle of Christmas-time), but God’s joy is consistent and rises far above temporal circumstances. God has given us this wonderful gift and He desires to increase it. Studying God’s word and obeying it increases our joy (1 John 1:4). You wouldn’t just leave a wrapped present that was given to you, no, you’d actively open it, examine it and apply it to your life. “He shows how to distinguish right from wrong, how to find the right decision every time. For wisdom and truth will enter the very center of your being, filling your life with joy” (Proverbs 2:9-10). He has told us over and over throughout scripture to seek him and learn his ways. Why? So that your cup of joy will overflow.

Today, pray that God’s grace will help you see your circumstances through His perspective and give you the desire to know Him deeper and to increase your joy. Ask God for a heart of overflowing joy today and that others will bear witness to it. Where? You know where, go ahead, sing it! Again, I say rejoice!