We all naturally desire a life that feels light, full, and happy. But how do you get that happy feeling to stick? Maybe you try blocking out the negative feelings-or rushing through unhappiness to feel better as soon as possible. Maybe you try telling yourself that you are already happy-or you pretend to be. Maybe you discredit your desire for a full life and tell yourself that happiness is impossible.
Your heart was made for joy-happiness that sticks. Perhaps trying to feel happy is actually standing in your way of true joy. Maybe negative emotions do not mean that you are further from joy but closer to it. Maybe it is OK to experience the painful feelings and walk through them. If that elusive happiness is on this side of the journey, then perhaps joy-real, deep joy-is on the other side. It is God's work to lead you through the journey to joy. Your only job is to follow.
This daily devotional includes 50 Bible passages and reflections that discuss joy as well as four short stories from my journey. May these pages give you space to notice yourself as you begin the journey to experiencing true joy.
