In these days of turmoil with many people unhappy, it is good to remember the difference between happiness and joy.

The many unhappy people can tell you that happiness is tied to our circumstances. When things go awry, happiness evaporates like fog in the early morning sun.

Joy, on the other hand continues no matter what, for it is dependent on Jesus, who never changes.

Joy can continue through the worst of circumstances, as Jesus himself showed us. As it says in Hebrews 12, “for the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, disposing th shame and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

And in several places Jesus says we can do the same thing. James:2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, BECAUSE YOU KNOW that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Joy is released by what we know, not what we feel. Matthew 5:11,12 says,  "Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Again, we can have joy because we know there is meaning, reward and a plan in suffering.

And then there is  Romans 15:13 which tells us how to have and maintain joy: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace AS YOU TRUST in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Joy is always available, and we can appropriate it by trusting Him. Truly, Knowing Jesus is Enough for Joy!  Let’s live in that truth no  matter what our circumstance are.