John 15:11 NLT I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!
We live in a world that does a lot in trying to make us happier. We can live vicariously through a reality show, buy the latest, greatest face cream, fill our closets with the newest clothing trends, or discover the best weight loss regiment. So why are we living in a world that is unhappy?
We aren’t seeking joy.
Happiness is an external feeling. A feeling dependent on someone or something of this world. Unfortunately it comes and goes, it is not sustainable no matter how hard we try. We buy the latest clothing trends just to find out the trend has changed already. We find love in a new person, until they walk away.
Joy, on the other hand, is an internal assurance that, no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in, we have the confidence that Jesus is walking by our side. But joy takes work. We need to stay connected to the vine and allow God to prune our branches so that, when we find happiness is not long-lasting, we are already intertwined in the vine of Jesus. We cannot go through anything without the promises He made and the comfort He provides. As we continue to be pruned we will find that happiness will take a back seat to the joy God wants in our life.
