Joyful Moments in Christ

Joy can feel distant when life is filled with stress, grief, or disappointment, but fortunately, the Bible reminds us that joy is not reserved for just for the easy days. Proverbs 17:22 calls us to remember that joy is both a gift from God and a source of strength. Let’s say a prayer that will help us see God’s goodness in the middle of daily struggles and give us desire to choose joy even when circumstances try to silence it.

A Prayer

Dear Father,

You are the giver of joy and the source of every good and perfect gift. You can bring joy into any circumstance, no matter how bleak it may seem. Paul was able to rejoice while in prison. David sang praises while being pursued by enemies. Hannah found hope in her anguish. Habakkuk rejoiced even when the fields were bare and the stalls were empty. You have always met your people in their lowest places and reminded them that joy is not dependent on circumstance, but on your presence.

I confess that when times get tough, I often choose to avoid joy. I allow the evil one to whisper that joy is out of reach or not worth seeking. I wallow in sadness, frustration, or self-pity. I focus on what is missing rather than what you have provided. Even worse, I know this is wrong. I know there are small blessings around me every day, but I let my difficulties take center stage in my mind and heart.

Thank you that you do not leave me in that place. You scatter blessings throughout my life as reminders of your care. When a loved one dies, I can take joy in the friends who comfort me. When a child misbehaves, I can take joy in the opportunity to guide and teach. When something breaks in my home, I can take joy in the many other provisions you have given—running water, a warm bed, food on the table, and people who help shoulder burdens. These small mercies are signs of your love and presence.

Please help me to seek out joy intentionally. As Proverbs 17:22 (ESV) says, “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Do not allow my spirit to be crushed by fear, discouragement, or bitterness. Remind me of your goodness when my mind wanders. Remind me of your kindness when I feel alone. Remind me of your love when sorrow tries to take over. Help me remember that I am never abandoned and that you walk every step with me. Teach me to find joy not only in the bright moments, but also in the shadows, trusting that you are at work in all things.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Respond

Please pray a prayer about choosing joy.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, you can use the ACTS method: Adoration, Confession, Thankfulness, and Supplication:

• Adoration: Praise God. Does this topic bring any specific characteristics of God to mind?
• Confession: Tell God that you are sorry for specific sins. Does this topic bring any specific sins to mind?
• Thankfulness: Show gratitude towards God. Does anything from this topic inspire gratitude?
• Supplication: Make requests for yourself and for others. Does anything from this topic inspire a prayer?

If helpful, you can use a prayer journal template.

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English Standard Version (ESV): Unless otherwise noted, scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.