The new year is often a time when people take stock of their lives, accomplishments, goals, and progress. It is also a time to evaluate the past year, learn from mistakes, and see if a change of direction is in order.
One goal that almost everyone has in common—regardless of nationality, personality, religion, social status or the many things that make us different or unique—is happiness! To be happy, joyful, and satisfied is something that almost everyone craves.
When the angel came to the shepherds immediately after Jesus’ birth he said: “Don’t be afraid! I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people” 1.
This is the foundation of Christianity, and that good news is that Jesus came to bring us love, forgiveness, and salvation.
John 3:17 says: “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”
I think if we want to be faithful Christians, it is helpful to consider how we can best portray our faith to others. In a time when much of the news that people read and hear is “bad news,” we have the opportunity to share a joyful faith that is full of good news with others.
One of my goals this year is to be happy in my faith, to make sure that as I stand strong and steadfast, that I do it in such a way that others can be drawn to Jesus, that it portrays love and joy as notable attributes of my faith. Remember the promise of good news of great joy that the angel announced at Jesus’ birth is for all people—no matter who they are or where they are at in their life journey. Jesus’ gift of salvation is for all who will receive it. Everyone needs to hear the good news, not just the seemingly good people, not just the religious people, not just the people we deem worthy, but all people.
There is enough bad news in the world. I want people to feel uplifted, inspired, and happy when I spend time with them. Here are a few Bible verses on being filled with joy, happiness, and laughter.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy” 2.
“You will fill me with joy in your presence” 3.
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” 4.
“I will be filled with joy because of you” 5.
“Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice” 6.
“For the joy of the Lord is your strength” 7.
I pray, as you begin this new year, that Jesus will bring you joy if you feel sad, peace if you feel anxious, healing if you are sick, love if you are lonely, provision if you are lacking, strength if you are weary, and every blessing that I know He wants to give you.