The fruit of joy blossoms from the heart of God’s gracious work. His very indwelling by His Spirit gives joy because He Himself is joyful. This is far more than a superficial cheeriness or a passing happiness dependent on circumstance. Joy overflows from a heart wholly satisfied in Christ and daily takes delight in Him.

God’s people are a joyful people. Joy is a hallmark of their character and influence in the world. This is not just a put-on of external happiness, but a deep well of joy and satisfaction in the Lord Jesus that is visible as fruit. As Christians, we have so much to be joyful about, yet a classic caricature of a Christian from the world’s perspective might be that we’re killjoys. The perception of Christianity is that it’s all rule-keeping and no fun.

We know from Galatians 5:22–23 that joy is a fruit of the Spirit, a product of spiritual life and health. Joy that can be visibly seen and enjoyed is a consequence of the Holy Spirit working grace in us daily. It is not forced or put on. Rather, it is natural and effortless because of an inward reality. The fruit of the Spirit is a product of the Spirit and not a product of man. Our vision of Him shapes our inclination and demeanor.

The fruit-producing work of the Spirit, where joy occurs simultaneously with love, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, results in an abundant harvest within the church. Fruit means vitality and growth. It’s also a process, meaning that it is the regular work of the Spirit within us as He uses the Word, teaching, discipleship, and fellowship of the saints. It is a gradual work of sanctification within believers, resulting in congregations that effectively reach their communities. This is to be Christlike in thought and deed. But where does our joy truly come from?

Read More