Finding joy is something many of us long for, yet it often feels elusive. It’s a simple question, but a challenging one—how do we actually find joy in our lives? While I can’t provide a one-size-fits-all solution, I can share what has worked for me. I hope that it may be helpful for you on your own journey.
The Journey to Joy: My Story
My life didn’t start with joy. I was born the youngest of five children into severe poverty. Our family struggled to have enough food. I often wondered whether my mother would want me if I wasn’t cute or well-behaved. We moved constantly, always searching for a better place, but it never seemed to come.
Both of my parents had significant undiagnosed mental health challenges. My mother, in particular, was violent, and all of us lived in fear of her anger and abuse. I knew I didn’t want to live like my parents. But I didn’t have a clear sense of what I did want.
When I was eight years old, I was introduced to the idea of Jesus. He loved me and wanted the best for me. Along with this new understanding came a Ten Commandments bracelet and a Bible, which I still have today. It sounded good to me. So I began to study the commandments and compare them to the way my parents lived.
Through years of seeking, I discovered something vital: truth matters to me. There is a clear line between right and wrong. And we must strive to live according to what is right, while avoiding what is wrong. While this sounds simple, many people—my father among them—struggled to define what “right” actually was.
What Is Truth?
My father didn’t believe in right and wrong. He was an atheist who thought that as long as you could get away with something, it wasn’t wrong. Wrong only existed if you got caught or faced consequences for your actions. In many ways, I believe my father was a sociopath—disconnected from any real sense of morality or God. It’s no surprise that his life was filled with unhappiness and struggle.
But from my experiences with my father and others in my family, I learned that Jesus is truth. Jesus and truth are synonymous. He’s been with me since I was eight years old. Guiding me, showing me the way, and helping me discern what is right. I’ve come to submit my life to Him, trusting His guidance and His will for me.
Joy Found in Submission
What does all this have to do with joy? It’s simple: joy is found in the truth and discernment that Jesus shows me.
In Job 22:21, it says:
“Submit to God and be at peace with Him; in this way, prosperity will come to you.”
And in Romans 7:4, it says:
“So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.”
When I submit to God, accept Jesus as my protector and savior, and strive to follow His commandments, I find joy. I don’t find joy in anything else. No matter the challenges I face, be it relationship struggles, financial issues, or personal hardships. I know that joy is rooted in my submission to Him.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
If you’re struggling in your life—whether with marital problems, financial difficulties, or other challenges. I encourage you to consider Jesus. I can’t promise that life will suddenly be easy. But I can tell you that joy is found in following Him. His truth, His wisdom, and His love will guide you through even the darkest moments. Leading you from despair toward lasting joy.