Finding Joy in the Bible

Joy is an important characteristic for a Christian woman to possess. It’s not only a fruit of the Spirit, it’s something we’re to find in the midst of trials, it’s our strength, and it is supposed to fill our heart.

Sometimes being joyful is easier than other times. Sometimes it bubbles out of us, other times it takes a conscious decision to choose. In times when it’s a little more difficult to come by, it helps to turn to the Bible to learn more about it.

So, where can we turn in Scripture when we need to find joy? Here are some of my favorite verses on the subject:

“You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy.” Psalm 16:11, NKJV

“And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” Isaiah 51:11 NKJV

“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, My soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” Isaiah 61:10 NKJV

“Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; for I am called by Your name, O Lord God of hosts.” Jeremiah 15:16 NKJV

“Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” Habakkuk 3:18 NKJV

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³ gentleness, self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV

“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.” James 1:2 NLT

“Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, ⁹ receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:8-9 NKJV

“The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.” Psalm 28:7 NLT

“The joy of the Lord is your strength!” Nehemiah 8:10 NLT

The word “joy” appears in the Bible around 200 times (depending on the version). These are 10 of my favorite verses containing it, but there are so many more. It’s definitely something the Bible has a lot to say about, and I can see why. Joy not only radiates from a person and attracts others to them, it also increases quality of life, relationships, contentedness, self-image, and more.

Put plainly, joyful people enjoy life! Maybe not every single day, but overall, as a whole, they’re happy people who make others happy, too. What’s not to love about that?!

So focus on the good, keep a grateful heart, choose happiness, remember to smile, love Jesus, and watch Him weave a stunning tapestry of joy in your life! A joyful life is a beautiful thing to behold.

This list of verses is the completion of an eight week series on happiness and joy, so be sure to read my previous posts on decisions that lead to happiness, five things you can do today to feel happier, the difference between joy and happiness, being happy in your now, how to raise a happy child, the number one happiness killer, and why it’s the most important thing you can put on every morning.