Christian Joy

Christian joy, to which the word rejoice is related, is twofold. First, it manifests itself in true happiness, even in the midst of all of the "trials and tribulations" that are always encountered in human life, because God's law is the natural foundation for peace, prosperity and contentment - as opposed to sinful pleasures that always result in misery, sooner or later. Secondly, it's a peace of mind from the absolutely certain knowledge that, at the end of it all, glorious eternal life awaits the obedient.

Christian Joy Joy For The Obedient

"But let all who take refuge in Thee rejoice, let them ever sing for joy; and do Thou defend them, that those who love Thy name may exult in Thee. For Thou dost bless the righteous, O Lord; Thou dost cover him with favor as with a shield." (Psalm 5:11-12 RSV)

"Thou dost show me the path of life; in Thy presence there is fulness of joy, in Thy right hand are pleasures for evermore." (Psalm 16:11 RSV)

"The law of The Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of The Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of The Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of The Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of The Lord is clean, enduring for ever; the ordinances of The Lord are true, and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward." (Psalm 19:7-11 RSV)

Joy - Even In Times Of Difficulty

"As The Father has loved Me, so have I loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My Commandments [see The Ten Commandments and The Ten Commandments Now?], you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father's Commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." (John 15:9-11 RSV)

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1-2 RSV)

"Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness." (James 1:2-3 RSV) (see Why Does God Allow Suffering?)

Fact Finder: What is the "fruit of the Holy Spirit"?
Galatians 5:22-23

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