The Fruit of Joy

Happiness is...? What does it take to make you happy? People look for happiness in a variety of places: relationships, careers, money, achievements. But true, genuine happiness is found in a personal faith relationship with Jesus Christ! Genuine joy flows from our continuing love for Christ. 'Happiness' is based on favorable human circumstances, whereas 'joy' is an attitude of the heart based on spiritual realities. Our God is a God of Joy, for in His presence there is fullness of joy! Jesus Christ desires for us to know fullness of joy by being filled with the Spirit. But like love, it is our choice. How does the Spirit produce joy in us? Obedience to God's Word, submission to God's will, petitions to the Father, and service in God's work all bring us great joy. There is indeed genuine, overflowing joy in knowing, loving, and serving Jesus Christ. Of all people, we who know Jesus Christ as savior and Lord, should be filled with joy that is inexpressible and full of glory!!