February - Finding Biblical Joy When Life is Hard

When was the last time you felt true joy? I ask because the word “joy” is mentioned over 150 times in the Bible. That’s a lot, especially considering the depth of meaning it carries. Depending on the translation you read, it might appear even more. And yet, sometimes, it feels like joy is just out of reach, doesn’t it?

Here are some verses that many of us turn to for comfort:

• Nehemiah 8:10 (NIV): “The joy of the Lord is my strength.”
• Psalm 118:24 (NIV): "The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad."
• John 15:11 (NIV): "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete."
• Philippians 4:4 (NIV): "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"

These words remind us that joy is not just an emotion, but a gift—one that God offers freely, even in the most unexpected of moments.

But what about when joy feels distant? When it seems as though it’s something you can’t reach, no matter how hard you try? I know that feeling all too well.

There are moments when life leaves us feeling empty, as if joy has evaporated into thin air. It’s not just that we’re sad; it’s that joy feels impossible, like something we’ve lost or will never find again. And in those times, the absence of joy can leave a hollow space where peace, connection, and intimacy used to live.

When joy seems impossible to find, the Bible’s call to “rejoice always” can seem like a cruel reminder that something is missing. I’ve been there too, and it hurts.

But here’s the thing: joy isn’t about pretending everything is okay when it’s not. It’s about choosing to trust, even when everything around us feels chaotic and out of our control.

When you can’t seem to find joy, here are a few things I’ve found helpful:

1. Remember God’s faithfulness: Look back on how He has been faithful in your life.
2. Sit in stillness: Allow quiet moments to invite God’s presence.
3. Lean into community: Let others walk with you through hard times.
4. Practice gratitude: Even small blessings can open the door for joy.

Here’s what I’ve learned: joy isn’t always a feeling that just comes to us; it’s a decision. It’s a choice. It’s choosing, in the hardest moments, to trust in God’s goodness and to believe that He will bring light even into the darkest places.

It’s okay if joy feels far away right now. It’s okay to grieve, to feel lost, and to wonder if you’ll ever experience true joy again. But know this—God’s joy is not just an emotion. It’s a deep, unshakable strength that holds us when we feel we have nothing left to hold on to.

So, when was the last time you felt joy? If it’s been a while, I want you to know it’s still there. God hasn’t forgotten you. He’s with you, and His joy is waiting for you to lean into it again.

Even now, He is working in the quiet spaces of your heart. And slowly, as you trust, He will bring joy—His joy—back to you.

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