In the final hours of his life, Jesus wanted his disciples filled with his joy (see John 15:11; 16:20–24). Joy is a common topic in many of the apostle Paul's letters and is a key theme in Philippians. Paul often encourages Christians to be joyful, especially those facing persecution, like the Christians in Philippi and Thessalonica (Philippians 3:1; 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16).
Surface-level happiness depends on what is happening around you. Christian joy is different. It comes from a person's relationship with the Lord. It remains strong even during suffering and death. Joy comes from knowing that whatever happens, God will use everything for a Christian's ultimate good (see Romans 5:3–4; 8:28).
Christians also find joy in the active presence of God's Spirit in their hearts (see Galatians 5:22). The real secret to a joyful life is "to be filled with the Holy Spirit" (see Ephesians 5:18). A relationship with the living God forms Christians' attitudes, not external circumstances.
Passages for Further Study
John 15:11; 16:24; Romans 5:3–4; 8:28; Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 5:18; Philippians 3:1; 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16