People talk a lot about joy and peace during the holidays. However God meant for us to have joy and peace throughout our lives. In order for us to do so we need to understand just what joy and peace is and where (who) it comes from. I learned a long time ago that joy and happiness are not the same. Happiness is the feeling you get when things are going well, it is based on your circumstances. Joy is a deep and enduring state of our soul that no circumstance, event, or human can steal away from us. It’s delighting in God and choosing to rejoice in all things. Because our circumstances don’t rule us, our mood swings are nonexistent. This doesn’t mean we are always in a “good mood” but we can remain in an unexplainable place of contentment. Joyful people don’t allow misery, sorrow, sadness, or despair to rule their thoughts or guide their actions. Joy can cause our heart to smile even if things on the outside seem to be falling apart.
“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.” (Romans 15:13)
The worlds definition of peace depends on who you ask. Most will agree the absence of problems or difficult people will give them peace. Now who can live in this world without either of those? Jesus Christ can provide us with an inner peace that does not depend on what’s going on around us or difficult people. Peace isn’t tied to circumstances. Peace is a deep well of confidence that God is who He is and that He will do what He says He will do. True peace can only be found through a relationship with our Father and from resting in the promises of God. Jesus can give us peace even through hardships and trials.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John:16:33)
This world is unpredictable, we never know what it may throw at us. When we are in tune with the Holy Spirit, joy and peace envelop our life. When we make Jesus Christ the focus of our lives, He will speak peace to our souls and put joy in our hearts that this world cannot take away. Love and Blessings…
“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.” (James 1:2-3)
Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.” (Psalm 37:7)
” Life with God is not immunity from difficulties, but peace in difficulties.” ___C.S. Lewis
EMMANUEL 
Amen
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