“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

Everywhere I go I see people of all ages with some type of electronic device that captivates their attention. Whether it’s a Blackberry, IPhone, IPad, Kindle, Droid, Gameboy, or Blue Tooth, people want the latest device. The over use of these devices can lead to addiction. Try taking it away, or you leave it alone for a day and you will see what I mean. My question is does all this give a person joy? I doubt it.

Paul identified the spiritual fruit of joy. This is something we as Christians are able to express to others. It comes from your heart and soul and is not dependent on the most current fad in technology, clothing, or hobby. If we want real joy, we need to have a good relationship with God, be content without craving more, and live in the belief that true joy comes from acknowledging the presence of the Christ in our life. The Holy Spirit always focuses on Christ, so pay attention to His ministry of joy in your life.

Happiness is temporary and reactive to something that has given us pleasure. Joy is not a reaction. It is a deep-rooted part of our new nature because of our salvation. Joy will survive the worst thing that can ever happen to you. Although nothing can take it away, sin and doubt can diminish our awareness of joy and rob us of our trust in God. Paul wrote a letter to the Philippian Church while he was in jail for preaching about Jesus. In the Philippian letter Paul said, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4)

Are you happy right now? If so, is it because things are going your way or something good has happened? Will it last? God wants something better for you. He wants you to have joy, so talk to Him about it.