A couple of weeks ago, I was asked the question, "Are you happy?" My immediate answer was, "yes," but that was not my honest answer.

As I thought more and more about the question, my answer was no.

I realized that I am just simply not happy with who I am right now in my life. On the outside, I am a happy person. I am happy when I am around the ones that I love, but in my heart, I do not feel the happiness or the joy.

I am finding myself searching for temporary happiness rather than finding joy.

I thought to myself, "Where do I even begin finding joy?" The answer to that question is quite simple, God's word.

I decided to read the book of Phillipians. This is a book of the Bible that Paul wrote to show the true joy that comes from Christ alone. Phillipians compares happiness and joy. Happiness depends on happenings, but joy depends on Christ.

As I read this, I asked myself, "Am I longing for happiness or joy?"

Joy runs deeper and stronger. Joy comes from the assurance of God's love and work in our lives.

We should find joy in the gifts that God gives us. Sometimes, I get frustrated when people around me do not appreciate the little things that I do for them, but I take God's immeasurable gifts for granted daily. He has an abundance of grace and peace. He will always be there for us to rest in His peace and feel His grace.

God won't give up on you! This is a great way to be joyful today and every day.