Consider it  Pure Joy
by Robin Killeen

James 1:2-4 says consider it pure joy whenever we face trials of many kinds, because we know that the testing of our faith produces perseverance.  Let perseverance finish its work so that we may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Consider it all joy? How is this possible to maintain joy when we face trials and struggles? It certainly doesn’t mean we derive pleasure from our struggles. Rather, this describes a unique kind of joy, a deep sense of well-being that comes from knowing that God is in control of everything. It is an assurance that He is constantly at work, using both our struggles and pleasure to develop within us character traits of endurance and patience.

Counting it all joy may not always change our circumstances, but it will always change our hearts! So, no matter what our circumstances may be, we can always find joy in His presence!

Joy and Happiness are not the same things. However, people have a tendency to combine the words joy and happiness, thinking they have the same meaning.  So, let us look at some differences between Happiness and Joy. My hope and goal for you is when you finish reading this article, you’ll decide to Consider it all Joy, no matter the circumstances.

A dictionary definition of happiness is “a state of well-being; a pleasurable or satisfying experience.” A definition of the word rejoice, related to the word joy, is “to feel great delight; to be glad.” Depending on the translation, the Bible uses the words happy and happiness about 30 times, while joy and rejoice appear over 300 times.

You might be surprised to know that happiness may not be the best thing to take aim for. I must admit that before I understood the contrast between these two words, I thought they were relatively similar. But upon comparing joy and happiness, I have learned they're extremely different.

One of the major difference’s rests in their source. Happiness is typically an external entity; that is linked to events, circumstances, or possessions. For example, you might feel happy when you get that new job, buy a new house or car. On the other hand, joy is more internal and spiritual. It can be derived from inner peace, love, or service to others. 

Rebekkah Frunzac, M.D., general surgeon and chief wellness officer at Mayo Clinic Health System says, "Happiness is an emotion, joy is more a state of being,"

Joy is dependent on who Jesus is rather than on who we are. True joy comes from spending time in God's presence. Trusting in GOD every day, even when we face challenges, helps us tap into our inner joy and strength only He can provide.

We may not be able to choose our circumstances, but we can consider it all joy! We can choose, like Paul, to rejoice in the Lord – not necessarily to be joyful about our circumstances, but to find joy in God whatever our circumstances may be.

A fantastic way to consider it all joy, make a list of some things you are grateful for each morning before starting your day. This daily practice helps our brain shift its focus to joy, appreciation, and blessings, instead of challenges.

Romans 12:12 "Let this hope burst forth within, releasing a continual joy. Don't give up in a time of trouble, but commune with God at all times."

Nehemiah 8:10 (NASB), "The joy of the Lord is your strength."

Consider It All Joy, My Friends.