…Even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.

— Galatians 2:16

The secret of rejoicing always is found in the words: “in the Lord”—a secret many people never discover. They are, instead, looking for happiness. In this country we are guaranteed the “pursuit of happiness.” Unfortunately, there are very few people that find it, though many pursue it diligently. The reason is that happiness is determined by happenings. The word “happening” comes from the same root as happenstance.

Happiness is determined by happenings and happenings fluctuate constantly—ever changing and shifting about us. Joy is determined by Jesus, who is the wellspring of joy, the source of all joy.

“At thy right hand there are pleasures [joy] forevermore” (Psalm 16:11). Rejoice in your circumstances? No. Rejoice in the Lord Jesus Christ. That is the secret of rejoicing, of singing, and making melody in your heart to the Lord.

Jesus said that the best reason for rejoicing is that our names are written in the Book of Life (Luke 10:20). That is something we can count on as a source of joy.

Question to ponder:
Are you pursuing true joy or mere happiness?