Joy is a key theme that runs throughout the whole Bible. In the ESV translation, the word joy and its variations appear 430 times! There are multiple root words for joy used throughout the Old and New Testaments, but they all refer to what we would call joy or happiness. Let’s look at what joy is and some breath prayers for joy that we can use to remind our hearts and minds to be glad.

What is Joy

Simchah (שִׂמְחָה), one of many Hebrew words translated as joy, conveys gladness and rejoicing. This kind of joy is complete and overflowing, found in the very presence of God.

Another Hebrew word translated as rejoice is Gil (גִּיל), which expresses a sense of triumph, delight, and jubilant celebration. It signifies a joy outwardly expressed and experienced in the here and now. Alaz (עָלַז), conveys a sense of triumph and exuberant rejoicing. It is a joy that arises even in difficult circumstances because it is grounded in the faithfulness of God.

Chara (χαρά), one of the Greek words translated as joy, denotes a deep, abiding joy that comes from receiving God’s grace. It is a joy that transcends circumstances because it is rooted in the good news of Christ’s coming. Agalliasis (ἀγαλλίασις), another commonly used Greek word translated as joy, includes exultation, exuberant or wild pleasure, even to the point of ecstatic delight. It is an intense joy that overshadows everything else.

True joy is found in a relationship with God

Sources of Joy

The Bible mentions several sources of joy: creation, abundant harvest, wine, weddings, family, perfume, friends, speaking with wisdom, Israel’s freedom from slavery, and answered prayers are just a few. These things all help us to experience joy and happiness, but true joy is found in a relationship with God.

When the angel said to the shepherds, “I bring you good news of great joy.” The word “good news” is the same word for gospel. So, the whole gospel of Christ will bring you great joy. The joy there is not just an emotion but a source of pleasure itself.

Joy Is a Choice

Joy is not defined by our day, mood, or what’s happening around us. It is a choice, and it’s foundation is built on hope. Joy can be cultivated, and it’s one of the Fruits of the Spirit.

Joy does not mean ignoring or suppressing feelings like grief or sorrow. But it does encourage us not to get stuck in those feelings. The things that bring sadness are temporary, but our joy is eternal and based on a happy God who loves his creation and provides a path to salvation. 

The fullness of joy is found in knowing and loving God.

We are joyful because of who God is and how he lavishes us with mercy and grace. The fullness of joy is found in knowing and loving God. Our joy is rooted in our choice to put our faith and hope in Jesus. 

It can be easy to feel joyful during the holidays, with time off work surrounded by family and friends. It can also be a time of sadness and disappointment for broken families and lost loved ones. But the joy we are offered as Christians stems beyond these circumstances. Joy becomes possible during difficult seasons because we know that Jesus has overcome death itself, giving us hope and a joyful future to look forward to—one without pain or suffering.

Our good news of great joy, Jesus himself, is always with us. If we stay focused on the source of joy, then even when hardship comes, we can experience the joy of the Lord.

Breath Prayers for Joy

Breath Prayers are a simple way to stay connected with and honor God throughout the day. They are short, uncomplicated prayers that can be aligned with your breathing. Here are a few breath prayers inspired by scripture for the Advent season, centering on joy.

Inhale: Jesus, you are good news and great joy
Exhale: you are my savior and Lord

Based on Luke 2:10-11: But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Inhale: In Your presence
Exhale: there is fullness of joy

Based on Psalm 16:11: You make known to me the path of life; in your presence, there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Inhale: Help me to keep your commands
Exhale: that my joy be complete

Based on John 15:8-11: This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.

Inhale: Lord, you made today
Exhale: I will rejoice and be glad

Based on Psalm 118:24: This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Inhale: I will rejoice in the Lord
Exhale: and be joyful in God my Savior

Based on Habakkuk 3:17-18: Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.

Curious about what it means that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? Read about it in this blog.

In the third week of Advent, we are called to embrace joy. It transcends circumstances and is rooted in our relationship with God. Joy is a choice based on hope and faith in Jesus. By staying focused on the source of our joy, we can experience the joy of the Lord even in difficult times. As we embrace true joy found by being in a relationship with Jesus, may we also share that joy with others, reflecting the love and grace God has lavished upon us.