What does the Bible say about joy?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that true joy is a God-given, enduring gladness rooted in His presence, grace, and saving work rather than changing circumstances. God fills believers with joy and peace as they trust Him, so that they abound in hope by the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13). Christians may rejoice in hope and even count trials as joy because God uses them to mature faith (Romans 12:12; James 1:2). Jesus gives a joy the world cannot take away, received through abiding in Him and prayer in His name (John 15:11; John 16:22-24). This joy is also fruit of the Spirit, nourishing the heart and strengthening faithful obedience (Galatians 5:22; Proverbs 17:22).
Top passages, ranked by readers
Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Romans 15:13 4 votes
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope in the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Romans 12:12 3 votes
rejoicing in hope, enduring in troubles, continuing steadfastly in prayer,
- Philippians 4:4 3 votes
Rejoice in the Lord always! Again I will say, “Rejoice!”
- James 1:2 2 votes
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you fall into various temptations,
- Psalms 16:11 2 votes
You will show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy. In your right hand there are pleasures forever more.
- John 16:24 2 votes
Until now, you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be made full.
- Galatians 5:22 2 votes
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,
- Proverbs 17:22 2 votes
A cheerful heart makes good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
- John 16:22 2 votes
Therefore you now have sorrow, but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.
- John 15:11 2 votes
I have spoken these things to you, that my joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be made full.
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