Always be Joyful. 1 Thessalonians 5:16 NLT
Happiness. What the we strive for in our lives. “Choose happiness” and “Be happy”: sayings that we all want to have but somehow still can’t grasp. As we walk through life there will be good times and bad. There’s no escaping it. So, we’re supposed to be happy when bad things happen? Is that what the world is saying? For me that’s not the case.
There is a big difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is dependent on our circumstances while joy is dependent on our God. Our God never changes so our joy remains constant. Joy is trusting that God always has everything under control and has your best interests in mind. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” With Jesus, we can be joyful during all circumstances, both good and bad.
There were many times in my life when I have experienced lots of difficulties. However, during those times my faith in Jesus strengthened immensely and although it was hard, I was able to choose joy. 
Let’s change those sayings from “Choose happiness” to “Choose joy” and “Be happy” to “Be joyful”.
I hope you know that it’s okay to be sad and happy but everyday when you rise remember to choose joy.
{This post was written by my dear friend Audrey. She has been one of my close Godly friends for 5 years now! She likes to play music, sing, and act. In fact, she is actually learning how to play the harp! When she is not playing music, she is spending time with God. Her light is shining so bright in this world!}
Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! (Philippians 4:4 NLT)
You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy. (John 16:24 NLT)
