Joy
Joy, as described in Scripture, is not the absence of hardship or pain. It is a settled confidence rooted in God’s presence, promises, and purposes — a joy that remains even when circumstances are difficult or uncertain.
As an outcome of following Jesus, joy grows as we learn to trust God more deeply. Over time, the Spirit reshapes our hearts so that joy becomes less dependent on what is happening around us and more grounded in who God is and what He has done.
Self-Reflections
Use the reflections below not to judge yourself, but to notice what patterns may be shaping your joy.
Signs of growing joy may include:
- A steady sense of hope even when circumstances are difficult
- Gratitude that persists beyond immediate outcomes
- Confidence rooted in God’s presence rather than changing emotions
Joy may be strained when:
- Contentment becomes dependent on circumstances improving
- Disappointment or hardship crowds out hope
- Trust in God gives way to anxiety or control
Joy is often counterfeited by:
- Temporary happiness tied to success, comfort, or approval
- Emotional highs that fade quickly when life shifts
- Avoidance of pain rather than trust in God through it
If you keep my commandments, 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 15:10-11
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.
— Psalm 51:12
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
— Romans 15:13
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds.
— James 1:2
What Often Undermines Joy
What God Often Uses to Form Joy
Resources to Help You Become Faithfull
The Joy of the Lord Is Your Stronghold
A message that uplifts the joy of the Lord as a deep, sustaining strength for believers, rooted in God’s unchanging…
Serious Joy
A sermon that explores how true Christian joy is both profound and purposeful — not shallow happiness, but joy grounded…
Joy Rules
A series of messages showing how joy is a biblical priority for believers, rooted in God’s sovereign work and ruling…
A message that unpacks the nature of biblical joy, emphasizing how the Spirit produces joy in us as we walk…
A teaching video from Francis Chan on the joy of the Lord, highlighting how joy comes from God’s presence and…
A Francis Chang video resource that illustrates how Christian joy is rooted in the gospel and sustained by ongoing trust…
We Saved A Seat For You
Church doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Sonrise, you can show up as you are, connect with people who get you, and leave knowing it was worth it. Our campus is located right where Santee, Lakeside and El Cajon come together. Join us this Sunday at 9:00 or 10:40 by visiting us at 8805 Magnolia Ave. Whenever you’re ready, we’ll be here.
Sonrise Church
Service Times:
- Sunday : 9:00 AM (1st Service)
- Sunday : 10:40 AM (2nd Service)