In this current season, joyful moments can feel hard to come by. Amid our experience of loss, uncertainty, and heartbreak, it seems odd that the Bible would still call us to rejoice (Philippians 4:4). Thankfully, though our circumstances often change, as believers, our source of joy never does. No matter what we face, Jesus asks us to find our joy in him!
Because Jesus never changes (Hebrews 13:8), we need not only rejoice when we have fleeting feelings of happiness or pleasure. Instead, we get to rejoice in Jesus himself. The following 15 passages remind us that joy is a crucial part of the Christian life, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), and a gift from the Lord. As you read these verses, pray the Lord would renew your heart and give you reason to rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. (Philippians 4:4)
Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. (1 Peter 1:8-9)
These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. (John 15:11)
So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. (John 16:22-24)
Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol, or let your holy one see corruption. You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 16:9-11)
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.(Philippians 2:1-2)
Oh come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! (Psalm 95:1-2)
Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his place. (1 Chronicles 16:27)
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. (James 1:2-3)
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17)
For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5)
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. (Proverbs 17:22)
My lips will shout for joy, when I sing praises to you; my soul also, which you have redeemed. (Psalm 71:23)
My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips, when I remember you upon my bed, and meditate on you in the watches of the night; for you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy. (Psalm 63:5-7)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (Galatians 5:22-23)
Was this list helpful? Consider checking out the other posts in our 15 Verses Series if you are feeling anxious, prideful, out of control, or are longing for inner peace.
