Published May 30, 2025
Have you ever considered that joy is a choice?
Joy doesn’t force itself upon us; it waits for our attention, our surrender, our yes. And when we do choose it, everything shifts.
We choose whether to embrace God’s presence—or not. Just like we choose to embrace His promises. Just like we choose to embrace His work in our lives. And when we choose God, we choose the fullness of joy that is promised in His presence.
Psalm 16:11 says,
“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”
Joy is not fleeting like happiness is. It is not temporary. Joy is a fruit of being near to God. Because God’s presence is not just some experience. God’s presence is a part of who He is. It is Holy ground and safe refuge all at the same time. It is everywhere, at all times. His presence is where we are seen. Where we are known. It’s a dwelling place, in which when we draw near, we see the true character of God. And when we choose to live there? Joy blooms.
So, what does joy in God’s presence look like?
It isn’t always big or loud. Sometimes, joy is a quiet peace, a steady strength that rises from deep within—even while tears are falling.
It looks like:
Gratitude for who God is, even more than what He gives.
Worship that overflows from a heart that knows it is loved.
The strength to endure, even when it’s hard.
The lightness that comes from releasing what we were never meant to carry.
Worship that overflows from a heart that knows it is loved.
Because joy isn’t optional for the believer—it’s essential.
It strengthens us from the inside out.
It mirrors the heart of a God who delights in His children.
It is part of the abundant, full life He created us to live.
Joy is what we find in the sacred space of God’s presence. It elevates any happiness we find in the world, and anchors us when things fall apart. It is the assurance that while everything might not be okay—I will be okay, because God is with me.
When that kind of joy–true joy in the Lord–blooms, flourishes, and becomes abundant?
Well, that kind of joy spreads—
into our homes,
into our churches,
into our communities,
and into a hurting world.
And it points others to Jesus.
But we can’t pour out, reflect, or share what we haven’t first received. So choose joy—not just once, but daily. Again and again. Let it grow in you as you abide in Him. Choose to dwell in God’s presence where joy is not only possible… it is promised.
“In Your presence there is fullness of joy.”
Not just a little.
Fullness.
Not just sometimes.
Always.
Blessings,
Elizabeth
If this message stirred something in your heart, I’ve created a few FREE printables to help you take the next step. Whether you want to journal your thoughts, reflect on Scripture, or keep a reminder of joy close to your heart—these resources were made just for you.
What’s included:
Whether you use them during your study time, prayer, or daily routine, these printables are here to help you reflect—and to remind your heart that joy is always found in God’s presence.
Download here: https://bluejeangypsy.