Many childhood songs focus on happiness. Happiness is a great thing. But I’d rather have joy.

I’m talking about something deeper, more grounded, more steady. A joy that isn’t driven by emotion. A joy that brings strength.

It’s knowing that there is something beyond you. Something worth living for, worth fighting for.

It’s a joy that is not my own, but one that is given to me. It’s a gift, a treasure. It changes the way I look at my days, my years. It gives me eternal perspective. It gives purpose to the seeming monotony of the everyday.

When feelings drift away from happiness, this joy remains. It is nothing I could muster up.

I’ve only caught a glimpse of the vastness of it.

the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Nehemiah 8:10

This post is linked to 5 Minute Friday at The Gypsy Mama.