There are moments in life when sorrow feels unavoidable. Jesus Himself acknowledged it, saying, “Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.” Joy does not deny pain—it overcomes it. Even the greatest men and women of faith experienced seasons of deep discouragement. Moses came down from Mount Sinai, fresh from the presence of God, only to find idolatry and rebellion. Job cursed the day of his birth. Elijah felt utterly alone. Depression and despair are not signs of spiritual failure—they are part of the human experience.

The issue is not feeling discouraged from time to time; the issue is staying there. Staying in the blues is a decision—but so is choosing joy. Joy is a disciplined choice to surrender control, to trust God with your life, your family, your future, and your fears. Jesus declared, “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” In your darkest hour, do not be driven by fear. Be led by the joy unspeakable that God gives—even in the worst of times. Joy is not accidental. Joy is a decision.