Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement

Life has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way. People can be rude, situations can be frustrating, and disappointments can come out of nowhere. If we’re not careful, we can let these things steal our joy. But here’s the truth: joy is a gift from God, and we don’t have to give it away to every inconvenience, negative person, or difficult situation we face.

Joy is a Choice

One of the greatest revelations we can embrace is that joy is not determined by our circumstances—it’s a choice. The Apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” Paul wasn’t saying to rejoice only when everything is going well. He was in a prison cell when he wrote those words! Yet, he refused to let his joy be dictated by his surroundings.

How often do we let small things rob us of our joy? The traffic is bad, so we’re frustrated all day. Someone speaks harshly to us, and we replay it in our minds, letting it ruin our mood. A co-worker gets on our nerves, and suddenly, our whole day feels miserable. But in these moments, we have a decision to make—will we give away our joy, or will we choose to hold on to it?

Don’t Let People Steal What God Gave You

Not everyone you encounter will be kind, patient, or considerate. Some people are dealing with their own struggles and take it out on others. Others may be jealous, rude, or simply having a bad day. But here’s the key: we don’t have to let their negativity pull us down.

Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” That means your joy is more than just a fleeting emotion—it’s a source of power. When you hold on to your joy, you remain strong. But when you allow someone’s words, actions, or negativity to steal your joy, you weaken yourself.

Jesus Himself encountered people who criticized, mocked, and rejected Him. But He didn’t allow their negativity to shake His peace. Instead, He remained focused on His mission. We should do the same.

Refuse to Let Circumstances Dictate Your Mood

We all face situations that don’t go our way. Maybe you didn’t get the promotion you were hoping for. Perhaps someone let you down. Or you received disappointing news. These things hurt, but they don’t have to define your day, week, or life.

John 16:33 reminds us, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” That means trouble is inevitable, but we don’t have to live defeated. When things don’t go as planned, we can either sink into frustration, or we can trust that God is still in control.

Sometimes, God allows delays, closed doors, and detours because He has something better ahead. If we waste our joy worrying about things we can’t change, we’ll miss out on the peace and blessings God has in store.

Protect Your Joy with Gratitude

One of the best ways to maintain joy is through gratitude. When we focus on what’s wrong, we’ll always feel frustrated. But when we shift our focus to what’s right, joy begins to rise within us.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Notice it doesn’t say to give thanks for all circumstances, but in all circumstances. There will always be something to be grateful for, even in difficult seasons.

If you woke up this morning, that’s a reason to give thanks. If you have a roof over your head and food to eat, that’s a blessing. If you have breath in your lungs and another day to serve God, that’s a gift. Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s wrong to what’s right, and that shift protects our joy.

Make a Decision Today

No one can take your joy unless you let them. The next time someone is rude, choose to let it go. The next time something doesn’t go your way, choose to trust God’s plan. The next time negativity comes knocking, refuse to answer.

Instead of letting circumstances dictate your emotions, anchor your heart in God’s unshakable peace. Choose to live with joy, knowing that no person, problem, or inconvenience is worth losing the joy that God has given you.

Hold on to your joy—it’s too valuable to give away. I hope this speaks to you, and I pray you have a blessed day!