Joy can feel like a luxury when life is hard. Illness, loss, uncertainty – these things don’t exactly make us want to rejoice. But in Scripture, joy is not tied to circumstances. It’s a spiritual posture rooted in who God is, not in what life brings.

The Apostle Paul, imprisoned and facing hardship, writes, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). That’s not denial – it’s defiance. Joy in trials is a declaration that God is still good and still in control.

James echoes this truth: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2–3). This kind of joy doesn’t come naturally. It’s cultivated through trust and intimacy with God.

Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness reacts; joy chooses. Happiness fades: joy endures. Happiness needs reason; joy needs only Jesus.

So how do we practice joy when life is messy?

• Start with gratitude. Even in pain, there are things to thank God for.
• Stay rooted in Scripture. The promises of God give us hope.
• Worship in the dark. Sing before the breakthrough comes.

Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned – yet they worshipped (Acts 16:25). That kind of joy shakes foundations, literally and spiritually.

Isaiah gives us this image: “You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace.” (Isaiah 55:12). God wants to lead us with joy, not just into it.

The world doesn’t understand this kind of joy. It’s not surface-deep; it’s soul-deep. It says, “I may not have all the answers, but I have Jesus – and that’s enough.”

Whatever you’re facing today, joy is still an option. Not because everything is right, but because God still reigns. Choose joy. It might not change your circumstances, but it will change you.