is , until a human overrides it and adjusts the thermostat manually . Similarly , the Holy Spirit can control our reactions to outside forces so the joy stays at the same level all the time . However , our human nature can override it . And that is why people confuse Christian joy with happiness .
It is a way too common misconception that if a person is a faithful believer they are never angry or sad . A good Christian , they believe , should always appear upbeat , happy and positive at all times . However , while on the earth , Jesus experienced emotions . He wept at his friend , Lazarus ’ s , death . He became irritated with the money exchangers in the temple and a fig tree that refused to bear fruit . Being a Christian doesn ’ t mean we have to be happy-go-lucky twentyfour seven , three sixty-five . But it should mean we strive to obtain joy , and as a result , an inward , unwavering peace .
For the believer , joy is like a deep undercurrent , undisturbed by the weather at the surface of the river . Joy is knowing that no matter
what , God is right there beside you , has your back , and will see you through whatever life throws at you . Joy is anticipating the day when we will kneel at His throne in Heaven and no longer experience illness , pain , heartache , or worry . Joy stems from the belief that this journey on earth is only temporary in comparison of what glorious things await us in eternity . Joy is a byproduct of faith . Though now you do not see Him , yet believing , you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory … I Peter 1:8 To the outsider , this may seem unrealistic , as if we believers are denying the impact of the situations we face . The exact opposite is true . We are fully aware of circumstances , and we will emote just like everyone else . However , we are not swayed by those emotions because , deep down , our faith tells us God has everything under control . He can turn whatever is bad into a good purpose for His glory and our benefit . It may be a trial to test our faith so later on we can withstand something else coming around the bend . Or it may be just life , part of the life journey in a fallen world where sin is rampant .
Count it all joy , my brethren , when you meet various trials . James 1:2
As I write this , my son is lying in a hospital bed , the pedestrian victim of a hit and run . He survived the injuries , but faces a long recovery with no income , no sick leave or disability , and minimal insurance . But in all the pain and suffering , I hope he can sense the joy I feel knowing that God has never left our side , nor will He anytime in the future . We will muddle through and come out stronger in the end . During the painful separation from my husband by his death , I experienced what others have called the joy of widowhood . That may sound like an oxymoron . But in spite of my gut-wrenching grief , then brain numbness , then bouts of anxious despair , God laid little serendipities in my path to remind me He walked with me . Knowing that beyond a shadow of a doubt made all the difference .
During both of these trials , I have felt the prayers of others , been overwhelmed by the kindness of my Christian friends , and was amazed how my daily devotional readings fit perfectly with what I was going through . All of these godly gifts have kept me moving forward on this journey called my life .
In the midst of the tears , no matter what the future holds , I can smile and whisper , “ God is good , all the time . I will not let the devil steal my joy .”