Is This Happy or is This Joy?

“Happy” is a reaction; “joy” is a living reality. “Happy” is a product, needs a reason to be, and is activated by something pleasing; “Joy” is the state of having Someone great, Jesus, live though us. “Happy” is a state of mind but “Joy” is evidence of a soul settled and determined to represent the very character and presence of God anywhere, anytime. Unlike “happy,” joy doesn’t need reason to be joyful. Joy is a way of being and living God’s word especially when circumstances challenge and test our faith. It is time for full joy to be the lifestyle that empowers our lives in Christ.