If you are like many people, you might think that being happy and being joyful are the same thing, but there is a difference. We experience a sense of happiness when our circumstances are pleasant and we’re relatively free from troubles. The problem, however, is that this kind of happiness is fleeting and superficial. When circumstances change—as they inevitably do—then this kind of happiness evaporates like the early morning dew in the heat of the Arizona sun.
The Bible teaches that joy is a gift from God, rooted in His presence and promises, not in our circumstances. It’s mentioned repeatedly as a strength, hope, and a fruit of the Spirit. The kind of happiness that’s lasting is an inner joy and peace, which endures in any circumstance no matter what comes our way. It may even grow stronger in adversity. This is the kind of happiness to which Jesus summons us in His sermon on the Mount.
The Sermon on the Mount, (Matthew chapters 5–7), is one of Jesus’ most profound teachings, and joy is woven throughout its message — though not always in the way people expect.
The term “abide” comes from the Greek word μένω (menō), which means “to remain,” “stay,” or “continue.” In a biblical context, it signifies a steadfast connection with Christ rather than a transient state. Abiding in Christ involves living in continual fellowship with Him, engaging the whole person – mind, heart, and will, in a life-giving communion.
The concept of abiding in Christ is prominently featured in John 15 where Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and branches. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”
There are three significant things you should know about the life of a branch:
- A branch is absolutely dependent upon a vine. The vine sustains the branch and provides everything needed. The branch never has to worry about its provisions.
- The branch is not called on to do anything for God, just abide in the vine. What we do on our own has no eternal value.
- The branch surrenders to the vine in order to be useful. It is the vine that produces the grapes — the fruit of the Spirit — which includes joy. In order for there to be this dependence and restfulness, there must be total surrender.
“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” — John 15:11
Reflection: Lasting joy is found when we stay connected to Jesus.
“Though you have not seen Him, you love Him… you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.” — 1 Peter 1:8
Reflection: Faith in Jesus fills us with joy beyond words.
God’s Recipe for JOY is simple and should be savored daily
Jesus first Others second Yourself last
Putting Jesus first means establishing a personal relationship with Him through prayer, worship and obedience to His teachings (Matthew 22:37). This reflects love for God above all other concerns.
Serving others second aligns with the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:39). The extent of our love for Him, is demonstrated in how we love other people. As Christians, we are called to act with compassion, generosity, and kindness, making the needs of others a priority in our actions while still maintaining reliance on God for guidance and strength.
Placing yourself last involves practicing humility and selflessness. It does not mean neglecting personal needs entirely, but rather avoiding selfishness, pride or greed, and being willing to sacrifice personal comfort, convenience, or desires for the benefit of God and others. This fosters character development, patience, and empathy, reflecting Christlike humility.
***The concept of “savor” in the Bible carries significant spiritual implications. It suggests that believers are called to be a “sweet aroma” to God, living lives that are pleasing and acceptable to Him.
