John 10:10 NIV “The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy.”
The goal of the devil is to constantly steal. One of the things he tries to steal is our joy. Because he knows that without it, we feel down and unable to move forward or fulfill our purpose.
Can you believe we’re only 22 days into the year, and it already feels like a continuation of last year’s struggles? For many, staying joyful has already been a challenge. Every day, just as you feel a glimpse of joy, something happens, and, tap, it evaporates, leaving you back at square one. Or are you in that situation where it feels like you don’t even know what you’re supposed to be doing with your life and feeling discouraged?
So how do you respond in these situations? The Bible acknowledges this struggle, but it also offers a roadmap to reclaim our joy.
Phil 4:4 NIV “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
This is what the word of God says. But then, how easy is it to rejoice when everything around you is crumbling? How easy is it to rejoice when nothing seems to be bringing joy your way? How realistic is staying joyful always?
It’s tough to be joyful always. Really tough, because life comes at you really fast. But one thing is sure: Jesus promised us joy. “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” (John 15:11) NIV.
So where then can we find that joy?
Ps 16:11 NIV says, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”
In the presence of God. Every time it seems like you’re losing your joy, every time it seems like you’re struggling to stay joyful, seek God’s presence continuously. And what does that mean for you?
- Talk to God about your current situation. He hears you.
- Search the scripture concerning what the word of God says about that situation and speak it. John 16:24 “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”
- Have the assurance that God will show up for you and leave it at His feet.
- Receive the joy of the Lord and decide to constantly keep your joy
- Stay in God’s presence always. Worship by singing or listening to songs that remind you of God’s love and promises. Surround yourself with others who uplift your faith. Write constant letters to God. Reflect on your joys, and show gratitude to God. It helps you refocus.
Fighting for your joy means:
- Changing your mindset to recognize God as the giver of joy.
- Renew your heart daily with God’s word, as that helps too.
- Building habits that nurture joy, even during challenges. Habits like starting your day with prayer, practicing gratitude, and choosing to focus on God’s promises instead of your circumstances.
- Choosing to celebrate small wins and cherish life’s simple blessings. Choose to smile even when things aren’t perfect.
- Using scripture to combat negativity and speak life over your circumstances.
It is my prayer that the devil will fail in every attempt to steal your joy. May the Holy Spirit fill your heart with peace and joy daily, no matter what challenges you face.
P.S: This post isn’t to deny that you’ll face moments of sadness or hardship but to remind you that true joy is finding strength through God during those tough times.
See you soon.
