Do you remember a song that you might have learned in Sunday school that goes like this, “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, down in my heart, down in my heart…”?  You couldn’t help but smile when you sang about having the “joy of the Lord” down in your heart.  

Shout with joy to God, all the earth!  Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious! 

Psalm 66:1-2

Have you ever prayed “dear Lord, give me strength?”  Perhaps it was for physical strength to move an obstacle in your way.  Maybe it was for mental strength to deal with an emotional problem that you needed to address.  Whatever type of strength you might be praying for, your heart should be filled with joy knowing that God is there, listening and caring.  He will give you the strength that you need, that in fact is where your joy should come from.  You are at peace, because you are not alone in whatever situation you are facing, your ultimate strength to handle life is from the Lord.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 

James 1:2

Quite often I find myself praying, “Oh Lord give me strength,” to deal with all the little inconveniences that come my way each day.  Whether it is to find the strength to be patient while I am waiting in line at the local grocery store, or holding my tongue as I watch a fast pace car put me off in traffic, I know that I can ask for the grace that comes from God to see me through.  

Awake, awake!  Clothe yourself with strength, …

Isaiah 51:9

As I start to focus on God handling each situation, I find that a smile starts to form across my face.  I realize that God is in control, He will bring joy to my heart in everyday living, if I remember to invite him in, and this is where your joy comes from.  Open that invitation each day, invite God into your life and see how He gives you the strength to deal with joyful moments each day.

“Be joyful always; pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 

1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18