“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
—Philippians 4:4 (NIV)

Joy isn’t just an emotion—it’s a mindset.

Research in positive psychology shows that gratitude and joy are practices, not just feelings. When you regularly focus on what’s good, your brain releases dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” chemicals that boost your mood and improve resilience. The more you practice gratitude, the easier it becomes to find joy, even in tough times.

Paul wrote Philippians—a letter full of joy—while sitting in a prison cell. His circumstances didn’t dictate his joy; his mindset did. He didn’t say, “Rejoice when life is perfect.” He said, “Rejoice in the Lord always.”

Joy isn’t about ignoring reality. It’s about anchoring your heart to a deeper reality: God is good, even when life is hard.

• What are three things you’re grateful for today?
• How can you practice joy even in difficult circumstances?
• What promise from God brings you joy right now?

Lord, thank You for the gift of joy. Help me to focus on Your goodness, even when life feels overwhelming. Teach me to choose gratitude, knowing it rewires my heart and mind for joy. Amen.

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.”
— (Nehemiah 8:10, NIV)