What if I told you money can buy happiness? Would you believe me? For the third week of Advent, we celebrate joy. We look with joy for the coming of Jesus. Throughout the scriptures, we see a clear theme of joy. Joy, however, is not to be confused with happiness. Let’s delve deeper into this.
There is a misconception that joy and happiness are the same thing. They are not. Happiness is circumstantial. It is dependent on what is happening around us. Joy, on the other hand, comes from the Lord. It is a gladness of the heart that can only be attained from knowing God and being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Joy versus Happiness
We have all heard, “Money cannot buy happiness.” Well, money can, in fact, buy happiness. Happiness is a fleeting emotion awoken by excitement and exhilaration. It’s that feeling we get when we bite our favourite dessert. It’s that feeling of being on cloud nine when things are going right. Going right. Those are the keywords here. Happiness is temporary.
Joy is a long-lasting feeling that does not rely on what is happening around us. It is long-lasting because it comes from a state of satisfaction with life. It comes from a knowledge of God, and with that knowledge brings comfort, satisfaction and a sense of purpose.
Have you ever wondered why people in the most dire situations seem to have this radiance that exudes from them? They’re not worried but rather happy just being. That’s joy. Isn’t it beautiful? I found myself many times this week quoting James 1:2, which says, ” Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds”. I felt irritation brewing beneath the surface whenever I faced any difficulty, but repeating this verse helped shift my mood.
As I wrote this, it made me think of Romans 8:28, ” And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”. I love it when Bible verses click with each other. It doesn’t matter if life does not mirror what we want it to be. It doesn’t matter if we’re doing the most mundane of tasks or are stuck at a job we absolutely hate. Why? Because we know God is working all things out for our good.
Peace as a Catalyst for Joy
We discussed peace last week. Peace and joy go hand in hand. Peace, too, does not rely on our circumstances. With peace comes joy. We can marvel at our day-to-day lives despite everything falling apart. Circumstances should not dictate our feelings and behaviour, but this is common today.
“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.” Matthew 2:10
The three wise men rejoiced joyfully after seeing the star after Jesus was born. Why didn’t it say they rejoiced happily? Jesus came to fulfil prophecy, so back then, Jews were waiting expectantly for this to come to pass. When the star appeared, the wise men realised that the day had finally come. They weren’t filled with happiness because the Saviour of the Jews had been born. The Saviour for generations to come. It was a promise for all time. This knowledge of God’s promise brought joy and inner peace.
So, how do we find joy in a world filled with chaos? We can start by showing gratitude. Gratitude goes a long way in centring and keeping us grounded. What’s one thing that you are grateful for today? At this very moment, I am grateful for the moments this week when I should have crashed out, but I relied instead on the Holy Spirit to fill me and take over. I am grateful for perseverance.
Call to action:
As we close out the third week of Advent, start today by viewing life differently. Things may not be how we expect them to be, but today is preparing us for tomorrow. Be in the moment. Ask the Lord to help you steward each day to the best of your ability. Pursue activities that bring you fulfilment. Be thankful for the trials that come your way. Learn all you have to, and don’t forget to be joyful through it all.
Share your experiences with joy and happiness in the comments below.
Until next time,
Abby
Authentically Abby 