Introduction to Joy

As Jesus ascended into heaven, His followers underwent a remarkable transformation. Their hearts overflowed with a joy far deeper than ordinary happiness—it was the vibrant joy of salvation, rooted in God’s promises and the assurance of Christ’s victory over death. This joy wasn’t fleeting or based on shifting circumstances; instead, it was anchored in the unchanging reality of God’s love, peace, and hope. The disciples truly grasped what it meant to worship. Their joy moved them to bless God and compelled them to share the story of Jesus—His teachings, His sacrifice, and His resurrection—with everyone they encountered.

Do you possess that kind of joy? Not the temporary high that fades with changing circumstances, but the enduring, radiant joy that comes from knowing you are saved? Joy and happiness are often confused, yet they are very different. Happiness relies on external factors and is easily lost. Joy, however, is grounded in the reality of Christ’s resurrection—the empty tomb, the fulfillment of God’s promises, and the assurance that we are loved and redeemed. Even Jesus said that if His followers didn’t praise Him, the rocks would cry out. This is the kind of joy that cannot be contained, the kind that fills us during moments of true worship.

For me, worship is where I rediscover this joy. Music, prayers, and the presence of God stir my soul, reminding me that my joy is not tied to what tomorrow may bring. Tauren Wells expresses this in his song “Joy In The Morning”: “You’ll never have peace if you don’t let go of tomorrow.” When we are consumed by worry about the future, we miss out on the hope, peace, love, and joy that our salvation offers us today. Each morning brings a new opportunity to embrace these gifts. Imagine starting your day with a prayer of thanksgiving, your heart eager to worship, instead of being weighed down by anxiety or stress.

Unfortunately, we often begin our days distracted by tasks and troubles, rarely pausing to bless God. But what if we shifted our first thoughts—our first sip of coffee, our first breath—to worship? If we welcomed each day filled with the joy and peace that come from worshipping the God of Hope, Peace, and Love, our outlook would be transformed. Joy would spill into every moment, creating a cycle of gratitude and worship that replaces dread and anxiety.

In the coming days, I invite you—and myself—to seek out moments for worship. Let our prayers focus not just on receiving blessings, but on blessing God. He has already given us so much. Let’s respond to His grace by living lives filled with joy, praising Him throughout our day, and sharing His love and joy with those around us.

“Then I will go to the alter of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God.”  Psalm 43:4 ESV

• What are some ways you can intentionally begin your day with worship, rather than worry?
• How does the joy of salvation impact the way you interact with others, especially during challenging moments?
• Where in your life do you see opportunities to bless God by sharing His love and joy with those around you?

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for the joy, hope, and peace You offer through Your Resurrection and Ascension. Fill our hearts with lasting joy that leads us to worship You and bless Your name. Help us to live each day with gratitude and love, sharing Your joy and salvation with everyone around us. Empower us by Your Spirit to be a blessing to You and to others. Amen.