By Dr. Jason Robinson

We all know that life can be tough. There are days when it feels like we are caught in a never-ending cycle of challenges, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether it is a heavy workload, financial strain, health issues, or the weight of a difficult family situation, it can sometimes feel like joy is just out of reach.

But there is a truth that stands firm, no matter what we face: The joy of the Lord is our strength.

This joy is not a fleeting emotion that disappears when things get tough. It is a deep, unshakable force that empowers us to endure and even thrive, regardless of our circumstances. God’s joy is a constant source of strength that can carry us through the darkest of days.

Below are 7 practical ways you can tap into that joy and make it a cornerstone of your daily life:

1. Focus on Gratitude

Gratitude is a game-changer. It pulls your attention away from what you lack and helps you realize what you have. When you feel overwhelmed, take a few moments to reflect on what you are thankful for. Whether it is your family, friends, health, or even just the small blessings that make life easier, focusing on gratitude opens the door for joy to come flooding in.

Try This: Take a few minutes today to write down five things you are thankful for. Let that list remind you of the blessings already in your life and fill your heart with joy.

2. Spend Time with God

For me, the mornings work best. I start the day by pulling out my devotional book, putting on some worship music, and journaling. It sets the tone for the day. If I am running short on time, I do not skip it. I find at least 10 minutes—whether it is at work or in the evening—to spend with God. When I make that time, it fills me up, and I am better able to handle what comes my way.

Try This: Set aside time each day, even if it is just 10 minutes, to spend with God. Whether it is first thing in the morning or before bed, make that time a priority and let it set the tone for the rest of your day.

3. Stand Firm on God’s Truth

The world is full of distractions and lies. Sometimes it feels like everything is working against you. But God’s Word, His promises, and His truth are a solid foundation that we can rely on. When we lean into those truths, we find a joy that is more powerful than anything life can throw at us.

Try This: Whenever you feel overwhelmed or discouraged, find a promise in Scripture that speaks to your situation. Meditate on it, write it down, and keep it close. Let God’s truth be the foundation for your joy.

4. Replace Worry with Trust

I remember a time not long ago when worry consumed me. A family member made some choices that were not healthy, and my mind spiraled. Worry kept me up at night, making everything feel more complicated. Then, I realized I was trying to control something that only God could change. The Holy Spirit reminded me to focus on the blessings around me—my family, friends, and all the good things in life. Now, instead of letting worry take hold, I choose to trust God with the situation and focus on what is good and pure. I remind myself of the truth in Proverbs 3:5-6, which tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding. In doing so, I find peace, knowing that God is in control and working all things together for good.

Try This: When worry starts creeping in, take a moment, breathe, and remind yourself of God’s promises. Instead of letting worry take over, choose to trust in His plan. Dive into the Word of God, letting His truth fill your mind and bring peace to your heart. Play worship music in your home, letting His presence fill the space and set the tone for the day. Focusing on His faithfulness and spending time in His Word will help shift your mindset, replacing worry with trust in His perfect plan for your life.

5. Bless Others

Blessing others is one of the most effective ways to tap into joy. When you focus on encouraging others and showing kindness, it helps take your attention off your own challenges and opens your heart to serving. Each day, I look for small ways to bless others. It only takes a moment, but it makes a real difference. Blessing others also blesses you, and the impact is often bigger than you realize. Whether it is sharing a word of encouragement or doing something kind, these actions can bring joy to both of you. It can be as simple as leaving a note with an uplifting message in a family member’s car, lunchbox, or on the coffeemaker. A short text reminding someone of their worth in Christ—that they are chosen, loved, forgiven, and called—can lift their spirit and bring joy to both of you. These small acts might seem insignificant, but they have a way of leaving a lasting impact and spreading joy in ways you might not always see.

Try This: Think of one small way you can bless someone today. It could be a kind word, an unexpected text, or an act of service. Look for those chances to lift others up and let that act of kindness bring joy to you as well.

6. Guard Your Thoughts

What you think about plays a huge role in the kind of joy you experience. Negative thoughts and worries can cloud your mind and steal your peace. That is why it is important to guard your thoughts and focus on what is pure, good, and true. As Philippians 4:8 reminds us:

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

Focusing on positive thoughts not only protects your joy but also strengthens your faith, helping you face life's challenges with confidence, knowing that God is the true source of your strength and joy.

Try This: Whenever you find yourself dwelling on negative thoughts or worries, pause and intentionally focus on something that fits the qualities listed in Philippians 4:8. Whether it is something true, lovely, or praiseworthy, redirect your thoughts toward what is good, and allow that shift to restore your joy.

7. Strong Relationships

Building strong relationships with others, particularly those who share your faith, is key to living a joyful life. Life can be challenging, and having a group of people who encourage you in your faith can help keep you focused on what truly matters. These relationships offer support, wisdom, and encouragement that help you maintain a positive outlook. Being surrounded by people who speak life into you and stand by you during tough times can be a significant source of joy.

It is also vital to be intentional about who you choose to spend your time with. Surround yourself with people who speak positivity and life into you, rather than those who bring negativity or discouragement. The Bible speaks about the importance of wise counsel in Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Relationships with strong, godly individuals provide the kind of support and guidance you need to face life's challenges with confidence. They remind you that you are not walking alone, and that can bring a sense of peace and joy no matter what comes your way.

Try This: Think about the people you spend the most time with. Do they build you up in your faith and speak words of encouragement? If not, consider connecting more with those who will help you stay focused on God’s joy and offer support through both challenges and victories.

A Joy That Lasts

The joy of the Lord is not about pretending everything is fine when it is not. It is about trusting in God’s goodness and standing firm on His promises, no matter what life brings. By focusing on gratitude, spending time with God, holding fast to His truth, replacing worry with trust, blessing others, guarding your thoughts, and building solid relationships with fellow believers, you can experience a joy that will endure through every season of life.

As Thanksgiving approaches, take a moment to recognize that God's joy is a constant source of strength and hope. Be thankful for this gift, and let it fuel you, carrying you with confidence through both the challenges and blessings ahead.

Let these lyrics from The Joy by The Belonging Co be your declaration:

"Oh my soul, bless His name,
Let all that is within me praise!
The joy of the Lord, the joy of the Lord is my strength!"

Dr. Jason Robinson is a Professor of Education at Lee University in southeast Tennessee. Jason is a local, state, and national award-winning educator who has a passion for teaching and equipping the next generation of leaders.

He and his family reside in Cleveland, Tennessee. You can connect with him on X (formerly Twitter) at @drjrobinson23.