The Christmas season can feel heavy when life circumstances don't match expected joy and celebration. True biblical joy differs from happiness because it doesn't depend on circumstances but flows from our relationship with Jesus Christ. Joy is the strength God provides during difficult times, not a feeling we manufacture ourselves. We can find this joy by recognizing God's presence in ordinary moments and choosing to trust in His goodness despite our struggles. Even when grief and hardship surround us, God's joy sustains us and gives us the endurance to keep going. This Christmas, we can discover deep, lasting joy that comes from Emmanuel, God with us.
