The Source of True Joy

Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church

August 31st Sermon, Day 1

Have you ever saved up for something you really wanted, only to find that once you got it, the excitement quickly faded? We've all experienced this letdown. We chase after possessions, achievements, and experiences thinking they'll bring lasting happiness, but they never quite satisfy our deepest longings.

This pattern reveals an important truth: there's a profound difference between temporary happiness and true joy. While happiness depends on favorable circumstances, God’s joy runs much deeper. It's not something we can manufacture or purchase—it's a fruit of the Spirit living within us.

Joy comes from the confidence that God is good, in control, and loves us unconditionally. It's not based on what happens around us, but on who lives in us. When we understand this distinction, we stop chasing fleeting pleasures and start seeking the lasting joy that only God can provide.

Today, consider where you've been looking for joy. Have you been searching in possessions, achievements, or relationships? These things aren't bad in themselves, but they were never designed to be the source of our deepest satisfaction. That role belongs to God alone.

Bible Verse

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." - Galatians 5:22-23

Reflection Question

What temporary sources of happiness have you been pursuing that ultimately left you feeling empty, and how might redirecting your focus to God change your experience of joy?

Quote

"From the Christian perspective, joy is not dependent on what happens around us, but on who lives in us. It's like this steady confidence that God is good, that he's in control, and that his love for us is unshakable."

Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive me for seeking joy in things that don't last. Help me to recognize that true joy comes from You alone. Fill me with Your Spirit so that joy flows naturally from my relationship with You. Thank You for being the unchanging source of true joy in my life. Amen.