Regardless of your circumstances today, joy can be yours. Many Christians struggle daily with discontentment, discouragement, disappointment, and some depression. If you are in that group, joy seems like an empty, distant promise with no hope of every experiencing it. This is simply not true. You can begin to have joy today.
Joy is found in Christ.
Notice how Peter reminded his readers of joy:
6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, 8 whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.
Peter explains that the Christian should greatly rejoice or experience joy. When? Now – even though you are experiencing various trials. The reason? Because you rejoice with deep and glorious joy since you will ultimately experience the salvation of your soul.
What about being in Christ brings joy?
Peter stresses (1 Pet 1:3-5) that the joy comes from this confidence as an in Christ person: you are born again which means you will experience salvation. As a born again person, you have a living hope since Jesus arose from the grave. As a born again person, you have an inheritance kept by God that is reserved in heaven for you. And, your salvation by God will be revealed in the last time.
This is the reason for joy. Even though your circumstances may not be what you want them to be, God guarantees you something of much, much greater worth – your salvation. So today, begin making your way toward joy by focusing on what God provides you in Christ rather than focusing on your circumstances.
