Daily Devotional

Scripture: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13

Happiness is Fleeting, But Joy is Eternal

People often say, “I just want to be happy.” But happiness is a fleeting emotion, a moment-by-moment experience that vanishes as quickly as it comes. Like King Solomon observed in Ecclesiastes 1:14, chasing happiness is like chasing the wind—impossible to grasp and ultimately meaningless.

The world offers endless distractions that promise happiness: success, relationships, money, material things, entertainment. But have you noticed that no matter how much we acquire, the emptiness remains? We consume more, do more, chase more, yet we are left exhausted, broken, and unfulfilled.

The Difference Between Happiness and True Joy

The difference between happiness and joy is rooted in Christ. Happiness depends on circumstances, but joy is a gift from the Lord that remains even in trials (James 1:2-3). It is not found in people, possessions, or temporary pleasures. Instead, it is found in surrendering our desires to Jesus and trusting in His eternal plan.

Jesus Himself said, “Apart from me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5). That means no relationship, job, or possession can provide lasting fulfillment—only Christ can satisfy the deep hunger of our souls.

Where Are You Rooted?

If our lives are rooted in Christ, we bear eternal fruit. But if we plant ourselves in shallow, worldly pursuits, we will constantly thirst for more (John 4:13-14). Ask yourself:

• Am I seeking happiness in temporary things, or am I pursuing a deeper joy in Christ?
• Am I teaching my children to chase the next “new and shiny” thing, or am I showing them how to find joy in Jesus?
• Am I filling my life with things that deplete me, or am I rooted in the One who sustains me?

A Prayer for Joy

Lord Jesus, help me stop chasing temporary happiness and instead seek the joy that only You can give. Fill my heart with Your presence so I no longer hunger for things that will never satisfy. Root me in Your truth so I may walk in lasting joy, no matter my circumstances. I surrender my desires to You and trust in Your perfect plan. Amen.

Additional Devotional Study:

📖 John 15:11 – “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
📖 Psalm 16:11 – “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy.”
📖 James 1:2-3 – “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

Blessings to YOU,

Cassandra Lee

There’s JOY in the journey – nourishing body & soul…

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