Would You Rather Have Happiness or Joy?

Some people are so thrilled by road trips, they hop in their SUV or camper and head off to a new adventure, as if they have never traveled! There are those who plan weeks ahead exactly where and when they will go, and others who are so spontaneous they get an idea and just pick up and “Go.” Good for them!

There are approximately 2.7 million miles of paved roads in the United States. That is a lot of traveling to do without some kind of map and direction. Of course, we all know people who rather take the risk without one. Sometimes, they never get to where they are going. Sometimes they do, but get so sidetracked, it can take a lifetime of confusion and pain along the way. We’ve all taken a few of those side trips!

Many of us want to get to the place called Happiness (which is entirely different than the real town of Happy, TX, and the 1999 comedy movie of the same name). The location we are talking about here is a state of mind. It’s a feel-good emotion we all want to grab onto.

Happiness vs. Joy

Before we go any further, let’s just be clear. Many, many things or places will make us happy and that’s a good thing. No sad frowns here. But we need to realize, happiness is temporary. So what exactly makes us happy?

• Chocolate does it for most of us

• 

  Raindrops on Roses. . .

  The first spring bloom in our garden
• A good book on a sunny day on our porch
• Visiting an art gallery
• Going to the movies
• Raindrops and snowflakes
• Wiggling our toes in sand
• Our favorite song on the radio
• A good restaurant meal

On the other hand, when we experience joy, we know we have a permanent and wonderful gift. Something we never want to let go of and will cherish forever. Where do we find joy?

• The touch of a newborn baby
• Sunrises and sunsets
• Newfound faith
• The smell of rain approaching
• God’s love
• The voices of our children
• The peace of Jesus
• Family
• All the promised blessings of God

The Best Road Trip of All

Life is an exciting adventure, but we need to be aware of roadblocks and dangers along the way. A map is always handy to prevent getting stuck at a dead end. Thankfully, we have a Guide and an entire Book of Maps.

Even if it took a little while to get here, we can now abundantly bask in each and every stop on the way to Happiness via a little place called Joy and a Guide named Jesus.

You have shown me the way of life, and you will fill me with the joy of your presence. Acts 2:28