What Joy Means to Me

This blog is written by one of our amazing students, Olivia. Give it a read and grow in joy!

When you google “joy” you get the basic definition stating that joy is “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.” This of course is not incorrect, but I’ve learned that joy is more about expressing God’s greatness. Knowing that He is constantly by your side and making sure your glass is half-full is such an amazing feeling!

I was so excited when Jeff asked me to write a blog for this week. Especially about joy! As our favorite places shut down, family events get canceled and loved ones get sick, it’s hard to feel joyful. For me, joy is all about the small moments in life. This dreadful year has helped me a ton with focusing on the little things.

So many things come to mind when I think of joy. My family, friends, softball, the outdoors, Christmas time…I could go on for days. In my opinion, you can find joy no matter where you are or what you’re doing. Of course it can be difficult, but that’s when you look to God for help. “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:11. He wants us to feel joyful!

As I mentioned earlier, I have been focusing on finding joy in the little things. Whether it’s playing board games with my family, exercising or going on socially distanced coffee dates with my best friend. I know that this difficult time will pass, but for now I’m going to enjoy the moments I can. I get that powerful joy feeling when I’m around the people and things that I love. To me, joy and love go hand in hand!

I recently read a book called When God Winks. The author talks all about how the coincidences we experience in life are actually God’s way of letting us know he’s looking out for us. When I’m feeling down, it’s hard for me to find a way out of my bad mood. Then all of a sudden here comes God with all this joy to give. Whether he’s sending a family member to check in on me, or bringing the sun out from behind the clouds, He’s leading me to find joy.

 This advent season I request that you find joy in all places! Remember that it is God’s gift to you. Enjoying those small moments while you’re stuck at home can make for many joyful memories. Lookout for the “Godwinks” when you think everything is going wrong and keep joy in your heart!