Full Of Joy

Is it possible to be joyful even when I’m going through a bad time?

God’s Response

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philippians 4:4

Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing, and yet we have everything. 2 Corinthians 6:10

Paul wrote to the Philippians to be full of joy—and he was sitting in prison when he wrote those words! His example teaches an important lesson: Your inner attitudes do not have to reflect your outward circumstances. You can be joyful when going through a bad time because no matter what’s going on outside, Jesus is with you and in you. It is only through your relationship with him that you can find joy in pain, suffering, persecution, and sorrow. That joy comes from knowing that nothing takes God by surprise and that he is in control.

This Is Promising

I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul. Psalm 31:7