But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is…joy.
Galatians 5:22 (AMPC)
Kids seem to live in a magical world where it’s easy to have joy over the simplest things. As we get older, life seems to get more complicated. We have legitimate cares and responsibilities; however, these obligations don’t have to steal our joy. We can be responsible, diligent and disciplined and be full of joy at the same time if we understand one simple thing.
Joy is not the result of an absence of problems.
Many people believe that they will only be able to have joy when all of their problems are solved. They need to get the right job, the right home and the right spouse before they can finally have joy. But in reality, as soon as one problem is solved, another one takes its place. Life will always have its challenges, but this doesn’t have to stop us from experiencing joy.
Joy isn’t dependant on people, places or things. It’s more than a feeling; it’s an inner contentment that goes beyond your circumstances. And joy comes from God.
You see, if you have given your life to Christ, God is with you all of the time. But to spend time with him, you have to turn your senses toward him. When you put your focus on him, you become aware of his presence, and you experience more of his joy. You see, joy is a fruit of the Spirit—it’s a by-product of having “His presence within” (Galatians 5:22, AMP).
Today, take some time to sense God’s presence. Over time, you’ll increase your ability to access his joy and strength, which is available to you every day no matter what life throws your way.