Our church had a women’s event this weekend that focused on joy. One theme that kept coming up as each speaker addressed this topic is that joy is not based on circumstances. Each of the ladies who shared had experienced deep hurt and heartache. Yet, they not only spoke about joy, they exuded it. And because I know them, I know this wasn’t an act just for these talks. They truly are joyful women, in spite of difficulties they have and are facing.

Listening to these women, I thought of another friend, Kim, who was diagnosed with ALS several years ago. This is a disease that, over time, robs its victims of the most basic life functions. Yet Kim has glorified God throughout her journey with ALS. When she lost the ability to speak, friends and family came together to purchase a computer equipped with eye-controlled technology, allowing her a means to communicate. And what does Kim do with this technology? She writes words of encouragement, reminding her readers of how good God is! Her blog is always so full of joy and praise. I am challenged with every post, as I see this sweet sister find reasons to rejoice, even in the worst of circumstances.

As I observe people who are truly joyful, I see that their joy has nothing to do with circumstances, and it has everything to do with Jesus. These folks recognize that they have a Savior who loves them, who is with them, for them. They are able to look beyond difficult situations because they know God is in control, and His ways are higher than their ways. They believe that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to his purpose. They look, not to people or circumstances to bring them joy, but to Jesus. And Jesus never disappoints.

Friends, it’s SO easy to lose sight of the source of our joy. And when we do, when we look to people or circumstances to make us happy, we will always be disappointed. But when we look to Jesus, no matter what is going on in our lives, we can experience the fullness of joy. So, as the beautiful old hymn says, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.”