Joy and Happiness are not the same things. However, many people combine the words joy and happiness, thinking that they have the same meaning. So, let us look at some of the differences between Happiness and Joy. My hope and somewhat goal is when you finish reading this article, you’ll decide to Choose Joy.
A dictionary definition of happiness is “a state of well-being; a pleasurable or satisfying experience.” A definition of the word rejoice, related to the word joy, is “to feel great delight; to be glad.” Depending on the translation, the Bible uses the words happy and happiness about 30 times, while joy and rejoice appear over 300 times. Now that will preach!
You might be surprised to know that happiness may not be the best thing to take aim for. I must admit that before I understood the contrast between these two words, I thought they were relatively similar. But upon comparing joy and happiness, I know they’re extremely different.
One of the major difference’s rests in their source. Happiness is typically an external entity; that is connected to events, circumstances, or possessions. For example, you might feel happy when you get that new job or buy a new house or car. On the other hand, joy is more internal and spiritual. It can be derived from inner peace, love, or service to others.
“Happiness is an emotion, whereas joy is more a state of being,” says Rebekkah Frunzac, M.D., general surgeon and chief wellness officer at Mayo Clinic Health System.
Joy is dependent on who Jesus is rather than on who we are or on our circumstances. True joy comes from spending time in God’s presence. The Joy of the Lord is our Strength can be found in Nehemiah 8:10. Trusting in GOD every day, even when we face challenges, helps us tap from the inner strength only He can provide.
We may not be able to choose our circumstances, but we can choose our attitude of gratitude and Joy. We can choose, like Paul, to rejoice in the Lord – not necessarily to be joyful about our circumstances, but to find joy in God whatever our circumstances may be.
Gratitude is being thankful or showing appreciation for the things and people around you. This could be by sending positive text messages, personal cards of encouragement to those that God has brought to your mind. Another way to choose joy is to list a few things you are grateful for each morning before starting your day. This daily practice helps our brain shift its focus to joy, appreciation, and blessings, instead of challenges. Joy says, “not my will, but yours, Father.”
Choosing joy may not always change your circumstances, but it will always change your heart! So, no matter what your circumstances may be, you can always find joy in His presence!
Father God, I know you are the source of joy. So, help me, not be anxious and present my requests to you with an attitude of gratitude. Sometimes it’s hard to have a cheerful heart in difficult times. However, I open my heart to you. Thank you that your strength is made perfect in my weakness. Thank you that the joy of the Lord is my strength. Teach me to always choose joy. In Jesus name.